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.