authenticity
Americannoun
Other Word Forms
- nonauthenticity noun
- unauthenticity noun
Etymology
Origin of authenticity
Explanation
Authenticity is the quality of being genuine or real. You might question the authenticity of your eccentric uncle's photo of a UFO. The word authenticity is the state of something being authentic, or legitimate and true. Authenticity is important when the value of something is dependent on where it came from or how it was made. If you buy a ring said to be worn by Marie Antoinette, you will likely pay a hefty price for it. Before you spend all of that money, you should consult with a historian or experienced jeweler, who will be able to verify its authenticity.
Vocabulary lists containing authenticity
This Week in Words: March 23–29, 2019
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“There’s a sense of authenticity and care that comes through.”
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2026
"No-one else leaned into authenticity in their music to that extent. They've consistently told their own story - writing and producing their music, and sharing the journey that brought them to where they are today."
From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026
“He has a deep authenticity that people can feel,” Rachel Lanier said the day after the jury’s verdict.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 28, 2026
It was only in 2025, while preparing an exhibition, that Parich managed to trace the hat's journey and confirm its authenticity.
From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026
I remember the catalogue from the first show, done on a mimeo machine, smeared and illegible, its poverty a badge of authenticity.
From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
