Insecurity
/ˌɪnsɪˈkjʊərɪti/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe state of being open to danger or threat; lack of safety.
/ˌɪnsɪˈkjʊərɪti/
A state of not being safe, settled, or protected.
The country faced economic insecurity due to the high unemployment rate.
💡 Simply: Insecurity is like living in a house with a leaky roof and broken windows – you don't feel safe or protected. It's a feeling that something bad might happen.
👶 For kids: When you don't feel safe or protected, that's insecurity.
More Examples
The new security measures aimed to address the rising insecurity in the city.
How It's Used
"Political instability can lead to national insecurity."
"Financial insecurity can result from an unstable economy."
Lack of confidence in oneself or in one's abilities; self-doubt.
/ˌɪnsɪˈkjʊərɪti/
Lack of confidence or self-assurance; uncertainty.
His insecurity stemmed from childhood experiences.
💡 Simply: Imagine feeling like you’re not good enough, or that other people don't like you. That feeling, that you're not sure about yourself, is insecurity. It's like being unsure if you’ve done a good job.
👶 For kids: When you don't feel sure about yourself, that's insecurity.
More Examples
She battled with feelings of insecurity throughout her adolescence.
The job interview heightened his insecurities.
How It's Used
"Her insecurity about her appearance affected her social life."
"His insecurity in the relationship led to frequent arguments."
Idioms & expressions
feel insecure
To experience a lack of confidence or a feeling of vulnerability.
"He felt insecure about his job after the company announced layoffs."
a source of insecurity
Something that causes a feeling of insecurity.
"His financial situation was a source of insecurity."
From Latin *in-* (not) + *securus* (secure) + *-ity* (suffix forming nouns of quality). The word evolved to describe the state of lacking confidence or being vulnerable.
The word 'insecurity' gained prominence in the 19th and 20th centuries, reflecting increased awareness of psychological states and societal anxieties.
Memory tip
Imagine a lock that's not secure; that's insecurity.