Definition of confidencenext
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as in secret
information shared only with another or with a select few accused him of betraying an important confidence

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word confidence distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of confidence are aplomb, assurance, and self-possession. While all these words mean "a state of mind or a manner marked by easy coolness and freedom from uncertainty, diffidence, or embarrassment," confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance.

the confidence that comes from long experience

In what contexts can aplomb take the place of confidence?

While in some cases nearly identical to confidence, aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations.

handled the reporters with great aplomb

When could assurance be used to replace confidence?

The words assurance and confidence are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, assurance carries a stronger implication of certainty and may suggest arrogance or lack of objectivity in assessing one's own powers.

handled the cross-examination with complete assurance

When might self-possession be a better fit than confidence?

The words self-possession and confidence can be used in similar contexts, but self-possession implies an ease or coolness under stress that reflects perfect self-control and command of one's powers.

answered the insolent question with complete self-possession

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 confidence That level of offense combined with six dominating performances by the team's two starting goaltenders, Aerin Frankel and Gwyneth Phillips, has led to a high level of confidence. Becky Sullivan, NPR, 16 Feb. 2026 The horse is traditionally regarded as an emblem of confidence and forward motion, suggesting a period defined by significant opportunity and success. Paris Barraza, USA Today, 16 Feb. 2026 Focusing on small wins during rehab helps kids rebuild confidence and return to their sport feeling strong and resilient. Jonathan Carone, Parents, 16 Feb. 2026 The trip was planned in a mood of confidence, even advance celebration. David Remnick, New Yorker, 16 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for confidence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for confidence
Noun
  • Texans deserve absolute assurance that no taxpayer dollars are used—directly or indirectly—to support institutions tied to terrorist organizations, criminal networks, or foreign adversaries.
    Eleanor Dearman, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Feb. 2026
  • Morrow received assurances from the American Legion that such discrimination would never happen again.
    Bill Swank, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • His certainty was expressed despite the fact his family is exploring a sale of the team, which could be completed by the start of the 2026 season.
    Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Feb. 2026
  • But permitting moves too slowly, regulatory timelines stretch indefinitely, and long-term certainty remains absent.
    Suzette Valladares, Oc Register, 15 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Long-term value is built through consistency and trust, not viral moments.
    Mina Haque, Fortune, 15 Feb. 2026
  • The trust and alignment isn’t there.
    Darius Jones, New York Daily News, 15 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • In one undated message, Epstein appeared to hint at secrets shared between the two men.
    Curt Devine, CNN Money, 18 Feb. 2026
  • The secret to keeping it contemporary and not costume-like?
    Shelby Comroe, InStyle, 17 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Bread dough The morning after Cathy and Heathcliff spy on Joseph (Ewan Mitchell) and Zillah’s (Amy Morgan) kinky stable tryst, Cathy loses her composure at the breakfast table watching a very wet dough (focaccia, maybe?
    Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 16 Feb. 2026
  • But Malinin missed his first combo and could never regain his composure in what was likely his worst performance in a major competition in quite some time.
    John Cherwa, Los Angeles Times, 14 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Indulgence of such desires can lead to an escalation of the hunger, rather than contented satisfaction.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 13 Feb. 2026
  • Bank of America on Thursday expressed satisfaction that the majority of the claims against it were dismissed.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 13 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The fast is believed to help participants focus on what’s most important in one’s life, as well as increase self-discipline, renew one’s faith and seek out forgiveness.
    Marina Johnson, IndyStar, 18 Feb. 2026
  • But as athletes have grown more comfortable publicly revealing their mental health battles, most good-faith actors have grown more careful labeling failure in such impolite fashion.
    Sean Gregory, Time, 18 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The secret to mental toughness is self-confidence.
    Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Feb. 2026
  • What could be tested during this time are your ability to see reality over wishful thinking, self-confidence despite setbacks, feeling lovable even if someone doesn’t come through, showing up even if someone else doesn’t.
    Tribune Content Agency, Baltimore Sun, 5 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Confidence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/confidence. Accessed 22 Feb. 2026.

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