— believability, believableness , n. — believable , adj. — believably , adv. — believer , n. — believingly , adv.
/bi leev"/ , v. , believed, believing .
v.i.
1. to have confidence in the truth, the existence, or the reliability of something, although without absolute proof that one is right in doing so: Only if one believes in something can one act purposefully.
v.t.
2. to have confidence or faith in the truth of (a positive assertion, story, etc.); give credence to.
3. to have confidence in the assertions of (a person).
4. to have a conviction that (a person or thing) is, has been, or will be engaged in a given action or involved in a given situation: The fugitive is believed to be headed for the Mexican border.
5. to suppose or assume; understand (usually fol. by a noun clause): I believe that he has left town.
6. believe in ,
a. to be persuaded of the truth or existence of: to believe in Zoroastrianism; to believe in ghosts.
b. to have faith in the reliability, honesty, benevolence, etc., of: I can help only if you believe in me.
7. make believe . See make (def. 46).
[ 1150-1200; ME bileven, equiv. to bi- BE- + leven, OE (Anglian) gelefan (c. D gelooven, G glauben, Goth galaubjan ) ]