Suspicion
səˈspɪʃən
Definitions
A feeling of doubt or distrust that something is the case or that someone is guilty of wrongdoing.
səˈspɪʃən
A feeling or thought that something is possible, likely, or true.
She acted with extreme suspicion after the incident.
💡 Simply: Imagine you see your friend hiding a present. You might have a *suspicion* they're planning a surprise party! It's a feeling that something is probably true, even if you don't have all the facts.
👶 For kids: When you think something might be happening that isn't good, that's suspicion!
More Examples
His arrival raised immediate suspicion among the detectives.
There was a lingering suspicion that the deal was not entirely above board.
How It's Used
"The police investigated the incident with a high degree of suspicion."
"I had a suspicion that he was lying."
"Suspicion can be a symptom of paranoia."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
above suspicion
Innocent of any wrongdoing.
"He's a person above suspicion, known for his integrity."
arouse suspicion
To cause someone to become suspicious.
"His unusual behavior began to arouse suspicion."
under suspicion
Subject to suspicion; believed to be possibly guilty.
"The suspect is currently under suspicion by the police."
From Middle English *suspicioun*, from Old French *suspicion*, from Latin *suspicio* ('mistrust, suspicion'), from *suspicere* ('to look up at, suspect'), from *sus-* (from *sub*, 'under, up to') + *specere* ('to look').
The word 'suspicion' has been used since the 14th century, initially with a broader meaning encompassing distrust and apprehension.
Memory tip
Think of a 'suspect' and the feeling you have about them.
Word Origin
"To look up at, suspect"