authenticity
Americannoun
Other Word Forms
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.
If one thing unites each of these Emmy-eligible comedy specials, it’s unparalleled levels of authenticity.
From Los Angeles Times • May 27, 2026
That recording was leaked in 2006 and reached the hands of journalists, experts, and former Cuban officials exiled in the US, who confirmed its authenticity.
From BBC • May 20, 2026
This devotion to authenticity is one of Thompson’s cornerstones.
From Salon • May 15, 2026
But the complaint highlights the growing degree to which political candidates have come to seek out the authenticity that social media influencers seem to offer.
From Los Angeles Times • May 15, 2026
Father had its horns painted bright orange and little plastic bells fitted to the tips, for added authenticity.
From "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel
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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.