Word: Honesty
Part of Speech: Noun
Pronunciation: ˈɒnɪsti
Category: General
Honesty Definition
Honesty is a quality of a person who is truthful, trustworthy, sincere, loyal and fair. It is the act of being honest which includes speaking the truth and creating trust in the minds of others.
Usage Notes
Often used in contexts where truthfulness and integrity are valued
Example Sentences
- In this business, honesty is the best policy.
- Her honesty and sincerity earned her much respect.
- Without honesty, a friendship has no value.
- Honesty is a key component of a successful business.
- Students should always maintain honesty in their studies.
- His honesty is beyond question.
Synonyms (Similar Words)
Antonyms (Opposite Words)
Idioms and Phrases
- Honesty is the best policy – It's always better to tell the truth than it is to lie
- In all honesty – To tell the truth
- To be honest – To speak truthfully
- Honest to goodness – Truly or really
- Honest to God – Really, truly
Word Origin and History
Middle English (in the sense 'honour, dignity, position'): via Old French from Latin honestas, from honestus (see honest). The earliest use as a virtue is in the phrase honesty is the best policy.