honest
Truthful, genuine, and free from deception.
Word facts
Definition
Honest describes someone who tells the truth and does not lie, cheat, or steal. An honest person is genuine, straightforward, and not deceptive.
Usage: Honest means not deceiving others. Candid suggests frank and open — sometimes bluntly so. Sincere emphasises genuineness of feeling or intent.
Example sentences
- 1
She appreciated how honest he was, even when the truth was uncomfortable.
- 2
Please give me your honest opinion of this draft.
- 3
An honest mistake is very different from a deliberate one.
Word family
From Latin honestus ('honourable, respectable'), from honos ('honour'). Honest and honour share the same root.
Honest contains 'on' and 'est' — the honest path is the one you stay on. The h is silent: ON-ist.
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FAQ
Questions people ask
Is the h in honest silent?
Yes. Honest is pronounced ON-ist, not HON-ist. The h is silent, like in hour and heir.
What is the noun form of honest?
The noun is honesty. Example: Honesty is one of the most valued qualities in a leader.