trusting

American  

[truhs-ting] / ˈtrʌs tɪŋ /

adjective

1. inclined to trust; confiding; trustful.

   a trusting child.

   Synonyms:

   unwary, naive, innocent, unsuspicious

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Other Word Forms

• nontrusting
  adjective
• self-trusting
  adjective
• trustingly
  adverb
• trustingness
  noun
• untrusting
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of trusting

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English; trust + -ing ²

Explanation

If you're trusting, you tend to believe what people tell you. A trusting friend will tell you her deepest secrets and trust that you'll keep them to yourself. Use the adjective trusting to describe people who always see the best in others. A trusting child believes everything you tell him and follows where you lead. A trusting dog will follow your commands and stick by your side. The verb trust means "to believe or have faith," and both words come from the Old Norse traust, "help or confidence," and are closely related to the Old English treowe, "have faith or confidence."

Example Sentences

Trusting parents who want to do the best for their children are not necessarily prepared to cope with that level of manipulation, nor do they expect it.

From Salon • Mar. 27, 2024

Trusting this Titans team to put together a winning performance is risky at best.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 15, 2023

Trusting the expertise of professional cleaners will give you peace of mind.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 3, 2023

Trusting in your love and power, we dedicate ourselves again to lives that are hopeful, cheerful, and of service to others.

From BBC • Jul. 4, 2023

Trusting that she knew exactly what she was talking about, Jack fixed his eyes forward again, expecting to see the horizon.

From "Half Upon a Time" by James Riley