Meaning & Definition of word "Ingenuous"
Ingenuous
in-ˈjen-yə-wəs
adjective:
- 1. Open, innocent, and straightforward; lacking in cunning or sophistication.
- Example: Her ingenuous nature made it easy for others to trust her.
- 2. Sincere; naive; free from reserve or saboteur intent.
- Example: Despite his ingenuous comments, everyone appreciated his honesty.
- 3. Characterized by simplicity and candor.
- Example: The ingenuous child asked questions about everything without any hint of malice.
- 4. Lacking in the ability to disguise one's thoughts or feelings.
- Example: His ingenuous smile revealed his complete lack of understanding of the situation.
Etymology
●From Latin 'ingenuus', meaning 'native, free born, or noble'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
keeping it ingenuous:
Being straightforward and honest without any pretense.
ingenuous charm:
A natural and unpretentious quality that attracts others.
Related Words
naivety:
The quality of being naive; lack of experience or sophistication.
candor:
The quality of being open and honest in expression.
Slang Meanings of ingenuous
Meaning: Being too trusting or gullible.
● Example Sentence: Don't be so ingenuous; not everyone has good intentions.
Meaning: A charming and unpretentious person.
● Example Sentence: She's so ingenuous, you can't help but like her.