distrustful

adjective

dis·​trust·​ful (ˌ)dis-ˈtrəs(t)-fəl 

: having or showing distrust

distrustfully

(ˌ)dis-ˈtrəs(t)-fə-lē 

adverb

distrustfulness noun

Synonyms

• disbelieving
• doubting
• incredulous
• mistrustful
• negativistic
• questioning
• show-me
• skeptical
• suspecting
• suspicious
• unbelieving

Examples of distrustful in a Sentence

she was distrustful of her boyfriend's claim of having saved the kitten from a raging fire

naturally distrustful of politicians who claim to have all the answers

Recent Examples on the Web

Although those states already prohibit interfering with police officers, supporters say buffer laws are necessary to protect police from distrustful, aggressive bystanders. —Richard A. Webster, ProPublica, 31 July 2024

And above all else, the male politicians around them are disrespectful and distrustful. —Peter Kastor, The Conversation, 13 Aug. 2024

The conspiracy-minded held forth in law enforcement in Arizona and in extralegal groups distrustful of government. —Amanda Luberto, The Arizona Republic, 24 July 2024

Along its land and sea borders, China confronts distrustful neighbors. —G. John Ikenberry, Foreign Affairs, 11 Feb. 2022

Word History

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined above