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insecure

adjective

/ˌɪn sɪˈkyʊər/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of insecure

Lacking confidence, stability, or assurance.
"She often felt insecure about her appearance, constantly comparing herself to others."

Detailed meaning of insecure

When applied to a person, it suggests a sense of self-doubt, anxiety, or vulnerability. Insecurity often stems from a lack of belief in one's abilities, appearance, or worth. It manifests as a constant need for validation and an apprehension about how one is perceived by others. Insecurity can manifest in various aspects of life, such as relationships, work environments, or social settings, leading individuals to constantly seek reassurance or engage in self-deprecating behavior. It can hinder personal growth, prevent individuals from taking risks, and limit their overall well-being. Overcoming insecurity typically involves building self-esteem, challenging negative thoughts, and developing a more positive self-image.

Example sentences containing insecure

1. Sarah felt insecure about her presentation, fearing she might stumble during the important meeting.
2. The old bridge looked insecure, with rusty beams and creaking planks, making it unsafe to cross.
3. His insecure job made it difficult to plan for the future, leaving him anxious and uncertain.
4. Jenny's insecure relationship left her constantly questioning her partner's feelings.
5. The stormy weather made the sailors feel insecure as they battled the raging sea.
6. Tom's insecure financial situation made him hesitant to make any major purchases.

History and etymology of insecure

The adjective 'insecure' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'insecurus,' formed by combining 'in,' meaning 'not,' and 'securus,' which translates to 'secure' or 'safe.' Therefore, 'insecure' originally signified a lack of security or safety. Over time, its meaning evolved to describe a lack of confidence, stability, or assurance in a broader sense, particularly in relation to one's emotions, thoughts, or circumstances. This term aptly captures the idea of feeling uncertain or vulnerable, highlighting its historical connection to the absence of a sense of security or safety in various aspects of life.

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Further usage examples of insecure

1. Jane's insecure password made her online accounts vulnerable to hacking.
2. The worn-out ladder appeared insecure, prompting them to find a safer way to climb.
3. Mark's insecure attachment style made it challenging for him to maintain healthy relationships.
4. The insecure Wi-Fi connection disrupted their video conference, causing frustration.
5. Emily's insecure self-esteem held her back from pursuing her dreams with confidence.
6. The insecure student doubted his abilities, always questioning his academic performance.
7. Sarah's insecure nature made it difficult for her to trust others in relationships.
8. The insecure employee constantly sought validation from his superiors.
9. John's insecure demeanor manifested as defensive behavior in social situations.
10. Lisa's insecurities led her to second-guess her decisions at work.
11. The insecure actress struggled with stage fright before every performance.
12. Mark's insecurity about his intelligence made him hesitant to participate in class discussions.
13. Their insecure friendship was characterized by jealousy and constant competition.
14. Jenny's insecure attachment style caused her to fear abandonment in relationships.
15. The insecure leader often micromanaged his team, fearing mistakes.
16. Jack's insecure financial situation made him anxious about the future.
17. Insecure individuals may seek reassurance from others to alleviate their self-doubt.
18. The insecure teenager constantly sought validation through social media likes and comments.
19. Her insecure personality led to difficulty in asserting herself in professional settings.
20. The insecure athlete doubted his skills despite his impressive performance record.
21. Jane's insecure nature made her susceptible to manipulation by others.
22. Insecure individuals may develop defensive behaviors as a coping mechanism.
23. The insecure student's fear of failure prevented him from taking risks academically.