n.
Pronunciation: ' kän-f ə -d ə n(t)s, - ˌ den(t)s
Function: noun
Date: 14th century
1 a : a feeling or consciousness of one's powers or of reliance on one's circumstances <had perfect confidence in her ability to succeed> <met the risk with brash confidence > b : faith or belief that one will act in a right, proper, or effective way <have confidence in a leader>
2 : the quality or state of being certain : CERTITUDE <they had every confidence of success>
3 a : a relation of trust or intimacy <took his friend into his confidence > b : reliance on another's discretion <their story was told in strictest confidence > c : support especially in a legislative body <vote of confidence >
4 : a communication made in confidence : SECRET <accused him of betraying a confidence >
synonyms CONFIDENCE , ASSURANCE , SELF-POSSESSION , APLOMB mean a state of mind or a manner marked by easy coolness and freedom from uncertainty, diffidence, or embarrassment. CONFIDENCE stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance <the confidence that comes from long experience>. ASSURANCE carries a stronger implication of certainty and may suggest arrogance or lack of objectivity in assessing one's own powers <handled the cross-examination with complete assurance >. SELF-POSSESSION implies an ease or coolness under stress that reflects perfect self-control and command of one's powers <answered the insolent question with complete self-possession >. APLOMB implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations <handled the reporters with great aplomb >.