adjective
genuine
JEN-yoo-in/ˈdʒenjuɪn/
Real rather than fake or pretended.
Her genuine smile makes everyone at the table feel welcome.
Etymology
Genuinus meant natural or innate, and genuine first contrasted what was natural with what was acquired. It then came to mean truly from its claimed source, connecting natural origin with authenticity.
In context
The key is genuine curiosity, not fake interest as a conversation technique.
More examples
- The belt is made of genuine leather.
- An expert confirms that the signature is genuine.
- He shows genuine concern for his neighbors.
Forms
genuine · more genuine · most genuine
genuinely adverb — In a real or sincere way.
genuineness noun — The quality of being real or sincere.