truer; truest
1
: agreeing with the facts : not false
a true description/statement
Indicate whether each of the following statements is true or false.
Their fears proved (to be) true. [=turned out to be valid]
If their predictions are true, we'll be in for a long winter.
Is it true that you were planning to go without me?
Jobs are scarce, and that is especially true for managers.
He can be stubborn, but that is true of many people. [=many people can be stubborn]
This is a true story. [=an account of something that really happened]
The same holds true [=is valid] for/in all similar situations.
2
always used before a noun
: real or genuine
The true cost proved to be much higher than they said it would be.
His true character/nature was revealed.
the true meaning of the term
She let him know her true feelings. [=the way she really felt]
3
: having all the expected or necessary qualities of a specified type of person or thing
He's a true artist/expert. [=he is truly an artist/expert]
a true gentleman
From the moment they met they knew it was true love. [=knew that their love was strong and lasting]
4
: completely loyal or faithful
I am your true servant.
true friends
—often + toHe's always been true to his wife.
5
: placed or done correctly or perfectly : without error
His aim was true. [=he hit the target]
6
always used before a noun
: rightful, legal, or official
She is the car's true [=lawful, legitimate] owner.
7
: exact and accurate : faithful
The story is a true depiction of life in a small town.
—often + toThe movie is true to the book. [=the story told in the movie closely matches the story told in the book]
8
—used to admit that something is correct or true
True, prices are rising, but I'm not convinced that the economy is failing.
"It would cost a lot less if we did it ourselves." "(That's) True."
9
not used before a noun technical
: in a position that is exactly straight, flat, even, etc.
If the cabinet doors are true, they will close tightly.
: in a straight line
The bullet traveled straight and true.
: the quality or state of being straight, flat, even, etc.
The door is slightly out of true. [=is not in its correct position]
Cite this Entry
“True.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/true. Accessed 29 Jun. 2026.
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