incredulous

[in-krej-uh-luhs]

adjective

1. not credulous; disinclined or indisposed to believe; skeptical

2. indicating or showing unbelief.

   an incredulous smile.

incredulous

/ ɪnˈkrɛdjʊləs /

adjective

1. (often foll by of) not prepared or willing to believe (something); unbelieving

Other Word Forms

• incredulousness noun
• incredulously adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of incredulous¹

From the Latin word incrēdulus, dating back to 1525–35; in- ³, credulous

Synonym Study

See doubtful.

Example Sentences

The host grew incredulous when he confronted Ladapo on the fact that Florida did not analyze how ending public school vaccination requirements might lead to increased cases of deadly diseases.

From Salon

Against this backdrop, Ms Han is incredulous that authorities keep asking for proof to recognise her and her son as victims of Hiroshima.

From BBC

James stole the ball but was called for a foul — his look at the referees incredulous as the fans booed.

From Los Angeles Times

Kachuck was incredulous: “There was so much information about malfeasance in the Mexican avocado industry.”

From Los Angeles Times

The one-time New York representative said he did not, leading to an incredulous outburst from the host.

From Salon

Related Words

• doubtful 
• hesitant 
• quizzical 
• skeptical 
• suspicious 
• unconvinced 
• unsatisfied