Faith

Definition

Faith is a noun that refers to a strong belief or trust in someone or something, often without empirical evidence. It is commonly associated with religious beliefs but can also describe trust in ideas, people, or principles.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /feɪθ/
• Respelling: FAYTH

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /feɪθ/
• Respelling: FAYTH

Etymology

The word "faith" originates from the Latin "fides," meaning "trust, belief, or confidence." It passed into Old French as "feid" or "fe," and later into Middle English as "faith," maintaining its core meaning of trust or belief.

Derivatives

• Faithful (adjective)
• Faithfully (adverb)
• Faithfulness (noun)
• Faithless (adjective)
• Faithlessness (noun)

Synonyms

• Belief
• Trust
• Conviction

Antonyms

• Doubt
• Disbelief
• Distrust

Usage

The noun "faith" is commonly used to express religious devotion, such as "Her faith gives her strength." It can also describe trust or confidence, as in "He has faith in his team's abilities."

Related Terms

• Belief: An acceptance that something is true, especially without proof.
• Religion: A system of faith and worship.
• Loyalty: A strong sense of allegiance or fidelity.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Strong belief in a higher power or religious doctrines: Describes belief in spiritual or religious principles.
  • Example: "Her faith in God was unshakable."
• Complete trust or confidence in someone or something: Refers to reliance on an entity or concept.
  • Example: "He had faith in his mentor's guidance."
• A system of religious beliefs: Indicates a structured practice or adherence to a specific religion.
  • Example: "Christianity, Islam, and Judaism are examples of different faiths."