Definition of authenticnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective authentic contrast with its synonyms?

The words bona fide and genuine are common synonyms of authentic. While all three words mean "being actually and exactly what is claimed," authentic implies being fully trustworthy as according with fact; it can also stress painstaking or faithful imitation of an original.

an authentic account of the perilous journey
an authentic reproduction
authentic Vietnamese cuisine

When can bona fide be used instead of authentic?

The words bona fide and authentic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, bona fide implies good faith and sincerity of intention.

a bona fide offer for the stock

Where would genuine be a reasonable alternative to authentic?

The words genuine and authentic can be used in similar contexts, but genuine implies actual character not counterfeited, imitated, or adulterated; it also connotes definite origin from a source.

genuine piety
genuine maple syrup
a genuine Mark Twain autograph

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of authentic Players should engage in the zeitgeist, concerts, cultural events and sports, all to create authentic connections with consumers. Joe Bobowicz, Vogue, 25 June 2026 As Lagaʻaia embarks on a massive worldwide press tour starting in Hawaii on June 15, a top priority is honoring her father Jay's Samoan heritage and representing the authentic Polynesian culture embedded in Moana. Jack Smart, PEOPLE, 25 June 2026 In partnership with Uber Eats, this project explores how brands can become part of the narrative in authentic and creative ways. Michael Schneider, Variety, 19 June 2026 The Rosenthals have amassed nearly 3 million followers with Robin's wit and authentic family outtakes. Marcella Baietto, CBS News, 18 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for authentic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for authentic
Adjective
  • The family of a 26-year-old man who was shot and killed in Fort Worth last week remembers his bright smile and genuine laugh.
    Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 23 June 2026
  • The film, based on Thomas Perry’s novel Strip, wears its influences — ranging from Elmore Leonard to Carl Hiaasen to Quentin Tarantino — heavily, without the genuine wit of many of its predecessors.
    Frank Scheck, HollywoodReporter, 22 June 2026
Adjective
  • Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publication and are subject to change without notice.
    Malana VanTyler, Miami Herald, 24 June 2026
  • Prices were accurate at the time of publication but may change.
    Zach Wichter, USA Today, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • But what if the real story is something much bigger?
    Dana Taylor, USA Today, 23 June 2026
  • The investment bank was less enthusiastic about gold as a hedge, noting that higher real yields and a stronger dollar have weighed on bullion prices, while gold options have become relatively expensive compared with equity and rates derivatives.
    Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 23 June 2026
Adjective
  • From viral Aldi Finds to tried-and-true products shoppers love to tell their friends about, people love the thrill of discovering something new here.
    Gabe Hauari, USA Today, 24 June 2026
  • That rugged access is part of the appeal for buyers seeking a true escape rather than a weekend cabin with neighbors in sight.
    David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 23 June 2026
Adjective
  • September 23 – October 22 Where can balance invite honest progress?
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 28 June 2026
  • Let’s be honest, flip-flops aren’t known for their support—but somehow, these under-$20 sandals have racked up hundreds of five-star reviews raving about their comfort.
    Genevieve Cepeda, InStyle, 27 June 2026
Adjective
  • Police did not immediately have an exact count of how many officers were injured.
    Jenna DeAngelis, CBS News, 22 June 2026
  • Treinen underwent imaging, but Roberts did not have his exact diagnosis.
    Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 21 June 2026
Adjective
  • History buffs, don’t miss the White River Museum on Park Avenue, which offers a quirky account of local history from inside a pair of the town’s original log buildings.
    Jamie Siebrase, Denver Post, 26 June 2026
  • Fifty years and thousands of runs later, six of the original players still take to the diamond nearly every Sunday, swinging for the fences.
    Christopher Buchanan, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Authentic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/authentic. Accessed 29 Jun. 2026.

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