adj.
Pronunciation: ( ˌ )dis- ' ä-n ə st also ( ˌ )diz-
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French deshoneste, from des- dis- + honeste honest
Date: 14th century
1 obsolete : SHAMEFUL , UNCHASTE
2 : characterized by lack of truth, honesty, or trustworthiness : UNFAIR , DECEPTIVE
– dis · hon · est · ly adverb
synonyms DISHONEST , DECEITFUL , MENDACIOUS , UNTRUTHFUL mean unworthy of trust or belief. DISHONEST implies a willful perversion of truth in order to deceive, cheat, or defraud <a swindle usually involves two dishonest people>. DECEITFUL usually implies an intent to mislead and commonly suggests a false appearance or double-dealing <the secret affairs of a deceitful spouse>. MENDACIOUS may suggest bland or even harmlessly mischievous deceit and when used of people often suggests a habit of telling untruths < mendacious tales of adventure>. UNTRUTHFUL stresses a discrepancy between what is said and fact or reality <an untruthful account of their actions>.