Definition

Not deserving of trust or confidence; someone or something that cannot be relied upon.

Example

I found him to be untrustworthy after he lied to me.

Conversation

I heard that Jake is really untrustworthy when it comes to keeping secrets.

Yeah, I've noticed that too; he always seems to spill the beans.

It's frustrating because I want to confide in him, but I can't trust him.

Totally! It's better to keep things to ourselves.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Untrustworthy → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "trustworthy" (from "trust" (from Old Norse *traust*, meaning confidence or reliance) and "-worthy" (meaning deserving of)). The word "untrustworthy" means not deserving of trust or confidence.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') deserving of 'confidence' ('trustworthy') — that's why untrustworthy means someone you cannot rely on.

Visually Confused Words