Doubtings

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈdaʊtɪŋz/

Definitions

1. The state of feeling uncertain or skeptical about a belief, idea, or action
2. A situation where a person experiences hesitation or distrust regarding the truth of a statement
3. The act of questioning the validity or reliability of something, leading to apprehension or indecision

Etymology: "Doubtings" is the plural of "doubting," the noun formed from the verb "doubt." The plural treats each separate instance of uncertainty or hesitation as a countable event, so a person might have several doubtings about a plan over the course of a week. The root word, "doubt," came into English through Old French "doute," which in turn descends from Latin "dubitare," meaning to hesitate or waver. That Latin verb is itself linked to "dubius," meaning uncertain, and the same root gave English "dubious," a word that still carries the sense of being unsure whether something can be trusted.

Synonyms: uncertainties, skepticisms, mistrusts, hesitations, disbeliefs

Antonyms: certainties, confidence, trust, conviction, assurance