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.
Wouldn’t it be great for both sexes if we all tried a bit more authenticity?
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 30, 2026
By limiting time and energy engaging with the platform, they were able to escape the prison of their fans and once again find meaning and a sense of authenticity online.
From Salon ● Aug. 30, 2026
"The idea is to ensure their authenticity because there was a trust deficit between buyers and sellers," director Ahmad said.
From Barron's ● Aug. 27, 2026
"She brought joy, laughter, comfort and inspiration to generations, always with that unmistakable warmth, wit and authenticity that made everyone feel like they knew her."
From BBC ● Aug. 26, 2026
But to some other thing that longed for authenticity, for a right to be in this place, effortlessly without needing to acquire a false face, a laughless grin, a talking posture.
From "Jazz" by Toni Morrison
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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.