distrust 1 of 2

Definition of distrustnext

distrust

2 of 2

verb

as in to doubt
to have no trust or confidence in we instinctively distrust those phone calls that tell us we have won a free vacation or car

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 distrust
Noun
For most people, distrust is the default instinct; only one-third of respondents tell us that most people can be trusted. Richard Edelman, Time, 18 Jan. 2026 The source of the current division and distrust within the citizenship of this great nation is on public display. Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 18 Jan. 2026
Verb
Publishing a story based on a handful of unnamed sources is simply asking too much of a public that already distrusts the media. Kristine Phillips, IndyStar, 9 Nov. 2025 The events occurred in and around the lawless border of Venezuela and Colombia, where spies, smugglers and gun runners rub shoulders and distrust their own shadow. Kevin G. Hall, Miami Herald, 7 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for distrust
Recent Examples of Synonyms for distrust
Noun
  • There is little doubt that this is a rapidly developing field and that there are tremendous upsides to be had, but at the same time, regrettably, hidden risks and outright gotchas come into these endeavors, too.
    Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 23 Jan. 2026
  • Analysts worry delays or cuts in Taipei could fuel doubts in Washington about Taiwan's resolve to defend itself.
    Ashish Valentine, NPR, 22 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • European and Ukrainian reactions ranged from cautious engagement to outright skepticism.
    Daniel Ross Goodman, The Washington Examiner, 9 Jan. 2026
  • However, some legal experts and investors are anticipating a partial or full refutation of the president’s IEEPA tariffs, as the justices showed skepticism during arguments about the president’s authority to levy such taxes without Congressional approval.
    Jake Angelo, Fortune, 8 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • All the while, Tony Award winning director David Cromer (The Band’s Visit) exploits audience suspicion.
    Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 9 Jan. 2026
  • Priya, meanwhile, turns her suspicions on Jack as well as the elusive Catherine, who yields no results on a Google search save for an article about her dead older sister.
    Sam Reed, Glamour, 9 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Schroeder and Pepper note that while girls are often socialized to name feelings, seek help, and build collaborative relationships, boys receive far fewer tools for navigating stress, conflict, and uncertainty.
    Dr. Liz Doe Stone, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
  • Their role is to provide clarity, advocacy, and guidance, especially during times of change or uncertainty.
    Kris Slugg, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Forcing us to discuss sexuality furthers the mistrust of educators between parents and their children.
    Marissa Payne, Des Moines Register, 22 Jan. 2026
  • The next Indianapolis police chief will face challenges including officer morale and community mistrust, despite reductions in crime.
    Jade Jackson, IndyStar, 16 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Distrust.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/distrust. Accessed 30 Jan. 2026.

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