insecurity

[in-si-kyoor-i-tee]

noun

plural

insecurities 

1. lack of confidence or assurance; self-doubt.

   He is plagued by insecurity.

2. the quality or state of being insecure; instability.

   the insecurity of her financial position.

   Synonyms: vulnerability, shakiness, precariousness

3. something insecure.

   the many insecurities of life.

Word History and Origins

Origin of insecurity¹

First recorded in 1640–50; from Medieval Latin insēcūritās; insecure, -ity

Example Sentences

Even for those who disagree, the fact that these posts have gained such traction — sparking conversations about food insecurity and community care — shows how deeply these issues resonate right now.

Read more on Salon

While lawmakers in Washington continue to play the blame game, the “fundamental safety net” of Snap hangs in the balance, says Hanna Garth, a Princeton University professor who studies food insecurity.

Read more on BBC

The WFP said the expulsions came a "pivotal time" as humanitarian needs in Sudan had "never been greater with more than 24 million people facing acute food insecurity".

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"Humanitarian needs in Sudan have never been greater with more than 24 million people facing acute food insecurity and communities impacted by famine," it added.

Read more on Barron's

The insecurity and the poor state of the roads make transportation almost impossible.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• self-doubt 
• uncertainty