Treacherous
ˈtretʃərəs
Definitions
Betraying trust, unreliable, or involving betrayal; presenting hidden or unpredictable dangers.
ˈtretʃərəs
Likely to betray trust; unreliable and dangerous.
The treacherous path was covered in ice.
💡 Simply: Imagine a friend who seems nice but secretly talks behind your back and sets you up. That's treacherous! It means they're not to be trusted, like a path that looks safe but has hidden dangers.
👶 For kids: Something that is treacherous is like a sneaky trap or a mean friend. It's not safe or kind and can hurt you.
More Examples
He was betrayed by a treacherous colleague.
The sea was treacherous with hidden reefs.
The government's policies were viewed as treacherous to the economy.
How It's Used
"The senator's treacherous actions led to a loss of public trust."
"The hikers faced treacherous terrain, filled with hidden crevasses."
Idioms & expressions
treacherous waters
A situation or environment filled with hidden dangers or risks, often implying deceit or betrayal.
"The company entered treacherous waters when it decided to compete with the market leader."
From Middle English *trecherous*, from Old French *tricherous* (deceitful, treacherous), from *trichier* (to cheat). The word's meaning evolved to encompass the idea of being unreliable or dangerous due to hidden dangers.
The word has been used in literature since the 14th century, often to describe acts of betrayal or situations involving hidden dangers.
Memory tip
Think of a *treasure* that turns out to be a *treacherous* trap. It seems valuable but leads to danger.
Word Origin
"deceitful, treacherous"