at heart

ADVERB

in reality

Synonyms

WEAK

at bottom basically deep down fundamentally in essence in spite of appearance inside

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But Stephania lived in turmoil, because she was a feminist at heart.

From Salon • Jun. 8, 2026

The longer you live, the more likely you are to realize that not everyone has your best interests at heart.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

"I'm a purist at heart and I think our Scotch bonnets need to be properly protected."

From BBC • May 31, 2026

Reviewing the first-season finale, I wrote that the series was at heart a romantic comedy.

From Los Angeles Times • May 29, 2026

Lola had come to the nursery that morning in the guise of the adult she considered herself at heart to be.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan