belief

be-lief · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    An acceptance that something is true or exists, especially without proof.

  2. 2.

    Trust, faith, or confidence in someone or something.

  3. 3.

    A religious conviction or faith.

  4. 4.

    Something believed; an opinion or conviction.

Forms

plural: beliefs

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    beyond belief — Too extraordinary to be believed.
  • •
    contrary to popular belief — Despite what is commonly thought.
  • •
    to the best of my belief — As far as I know.
  • •
    belief system — A set of interconnected beliefs.

Related words

Antonyms: disbelief, doubt, skepticism
See also: beliefs, believe, faith, trust
Synonyms: confidence, conviction, faith, opinion, trust

Etymology

From Middle English bileave, from Old English gelēafa ("belief, faith"), related to gelīefan ("to believe").