adj.
Pronunciation: ' plo ̇ -z ə -b ə l
Function: adjective
Etymology: Latin plausibilis worthy of applause, from plausus, past participle of plaudere
Date: 1565
1 : superficially fair, reasonable, or valuable but often specious <a plausible pretext>
2 : superficially pleasing or persuasive <a swindler ⋯ , then a quack, then a smooth, plausible gentleman ― R. W. Emerson>
3 : appearing worthy of belief <the argument was both powerful and plausible >
– plau · si · ble · ness noun
– plau · si · bly \ -bl ē \ adverb