Insecure
/ˌɪnsɪˈkjʊər/
Definitions
2 meaningsLacking self-confidence; feeling anxious and uncertain about oneself or one's abilities.
/ˌɪnsɪˈkjʊər/
Lacking confidence; anxious or uncertain.
She was insecure about her appearance.
💡 Simply: Think of a time you felt like you weren't good enough or worried about what others thought. That feeling is being insecure. It's like when you're nervous to show your art to your friends because you think it's not that good.
👶 For kids: Feeling like you're not good enough or not sure about yourself.
More Examples
He felt insecure about his future.
His insecure behavior pushed people away.
How It's Used
"He felt insecure about his abilities."
"She became insecure in the relationship after the argument."
Not firmly or reliably fixed; liable to break or collapse; unsafe or unstable.
/ˌɪnsɪˈkjʊər/
Not firmly fixed; liable to give way.
The rope bridge felt insecure as we walked across it.
💡 Simply: Imagine a wobbly table. If it isn't stable and could fall apart easily, it is insecure. Something that is not firmly attached or well-built, and therefore is at risk.
👶 For kids: Not safe or not strong enough.
More Examples
The data on the server was insecure due to a weak password.
The old scaffolding was insecure and needed to be replaced.
How It's Used
"The bridge's structure was deemed insecure and closed to traffic."
"The evidence was considered insecure due to improper handling."
From Latin 'in-' (not) + 'securus' (safe, secure). It entered English in the late 16th century, initially with a meaning related to lack of safety or protection.
Historically used to describe both physical instability and a lack of emotional confidence, with the latter meaning gaining prominence in the 20th century.
Memory tip
Imagine a castle (secure). 'In-' (not) makes it an 'insecure' castle – vulnerable and easily threatened, just like someone lacking confidence.
Word Origin
"Not safe/secure"