distrust

1 of 2

noun

dis·​trust (ˌ)dis-ˈtrəst How to pronounce distrust (audio)
Synonyms of distrustnext
: the lack or absence of trust

distrust

2 of 2

verb

distrusted; distrusting; distrusts

transitive verb

: to have no trust or confidence in

Synonyms of distrust

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Noun

Verb

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Examples of distrust in a Sentence

Noun He has a distrust of doctors. the psychic's bold claims were greeted with distrust and outright scorn Verb She's always distrusted their promises. we instinctively distrust those phone calls that tell us we have won a free vacation or car
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
However, widespread public distrust and disinformation about vaccines persist as a major challenge, threatening public health despite this scientific advancement. — Arthur L. Kellermann, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026 The threats came amid rampant speculation and scrutiny of the investigation, deepened in part by uncertainty surrounding Wells’ final hours, distrust of law enforcement and the state’s long history of racist violence. — Josh Kelety, Chicago Tribune, 6 Aug. 2026
Verb
Someone who distrusts pharmaceutical companies may be more receptive to claims that the pandemic was engineered for profit. — Art Jipson, The Conversation, 30 July 2026 Instead, Marchand accidentally explained why so many Americans distrust the press. — Dan Zaksheske Outkick, FOXNews.com, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for distrust

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

circa 1532, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1548, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of distrust was circa 1532

Phrases Containing distrust

Rhymes for distrust

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Browse Nearby Words

Distrito Federal
distrust
distrustful
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Cite this Entry

“Distrust.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/distrust. Accessed 10 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

distrust

1 of 2 verb
dis·​trust (ˈ)dis-ˈtrəst How to pronounce distrust (audio)
: to have no trust or confidence in

distrust

2 of 2 noun
: a lack of trust or confidence
distrustful
-fəl
adjective
distrustfully
-fə-lē
adverb
distrustfulness noun

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