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Definitions

insecure

[in-si-kyoor] / ˌɪn sɪˈkyʊər /
ADJECTIVE
uncertain, worried
Synonyms
STRONGEST
afraid anxious apprehensive hesitant shaky touchy troubled unsure uptight
WEAK
Delphic choked diffident hanging by thread jumpy on thin ice questioning touch and go unassured unconfident unpoised up in the air vague
Antonyms
STRONGEST
at ease calm certain collected composed cool definite happy peaceful quiet sure unafraid unwavering unworried
WEAK
confident guarded protected safe secure sound
ADJECTIVE
dangerous, precarious
Synonyms
STRONGEST
frail immature shaky unreliable unstable vulnerable wobbly
STRONG
unsafe
WEAK
defenseless exposed fluctuant hazardous insubstantial loose open to attack perilous rickety rocky rootless unguarded unprotected unshielded unsound unsteady vacillating wavering weak
Antonyms
STRONGEST
firm stable steady strong unshaky
WEAK
certain confident guarded protected safe secure sound sure

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.

"I'm really proud of him and it's a really brave thing to do, to come out and speak about something that you're insecure about and that you do keep hidden."

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026

A teenager insecure in their academics, social standing, or identity might see A.I. writing as a savior, a way to avoid unwanted labor and protect themselves against their perceived shortcomings.

From Slate • Mar. 20, 2026

The head of the Volunteers' House, Margit Vestbjerg, said some migrants, in particular Syrians, "feel increasingly insecure".

From Barron's • Mar. 19, 2026

“If I didn’t, I would feel insecure, like I looked ugly.”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

Their ruthless comments shaped my personality and turned me into a shy, insecure, quiet girl.

From "The Freedom Writers Diary" by The Freedom Writers

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.