Regarded as reliable, honest, and dependable based on past experience or reputation. Having earned confidence through consistent trustworthy behavior or performance.
From Old Norse 'traust' meaning 'confidence, help, protection,' related to 'tree' (suggesting strength and stability). The past participle 'trusted' emerged in Middle English, indicating someone who has been tested and found reliable.
Trust is fascinating because it's both rational and emotional - we 'trust' based on evidence but also on gut feelings and social cues. The word's connection to 'tree' reflects how trust, like a tree, grows slowly through consistent nourishment but can be destroyed quickly by a single storm.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.