Dishonest
dɪsˈɒnɪst
Definitions
Characterized by deceit, lack of integrity, or untruthfulness.
dɪsˈɒnɪst
Not truthful or fair; likely to deceive or cheat.
He was accused of being dishonest in his dealings.
💡 Simply: Imagine your friend promises you they'll bring pizza but they actually bring broccoli. If they're not truthful about the pizza, that's being dishonest! Dishonest means not telling the truth or being fair.
👶 For kids: When someone is dishonest, they are not telling the truth, like when you say you did your homework but you didn't.
More Examples
The company's dishonest marketing tactics damaged their reputation.
It is important to be honest and not dishonest.
How It's Used
"The witness was found to be dishonest during cross-examination."
"Dishonest business practices can lead to severe penalties."
Idioms & expressions
a dishonest penny
Money or wealth acquired through dishonest means.
"He amassed a fortune, but it was all from a dishonest penny."
From Old French deshonest (dishonest, unchaste), from des- (dis-) + honest. Honest comes from Latin honestus, meaning honorable, respectable.
The word 'dishonest' has been used since the late 14th century and has consistently carried a negative connotation.
Memory tip
Think of dis- (opposite) + honest = dishonest. Someone who is not honest.