insecurity

[ in-si-kyoor-i-tee ]

noun

, plural in·se·cu·ri·ties.

1. lack of confidence or assurance; self-doubt:

   He is plagued by insecurity.

2. the quality or state of being insecure; instability:

   the insecurity of her financial position.

   Synonyms: vulnerability, shakiness, precariousness

3. something insecure:

   the many insecurities of life.

Word History and Origins

Origin of insecurity¹

First recorded in 1640–50; from Medieval Latin insēcūritās; insecure, -ity

Example Sentences

When Stabenow released her Farm Bill text on Monday, it was largely well-received by organizations that deal with food insecurity, which has been a major concern this year.

From Salon

The scheme had also been “valued highly by those working in schools”, the report found, with senior leaders saying it had “helped to address the problems of hidden hunger and food insecurity”.

From BBC

The now 50-year-old model explained on the podcast "Fashion Neurosis with Bella Freud" that she felt a sense of insecurity during a photo shoot for The Face magazine at age 15.

From Salon

Summing up the mood of the city, Nazarian cited a “sense of insecurity that a lot of people are feeling.”

From Los Angeles Times

It’s not that feelings don’t come up that don’t feel good and bring doubt and insecurity.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• self-doubt
• uncertainty