What does faith mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈfeɪθ/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A complete trust or confidence in someone or something, especially in God or a higher power; a strong belief in something despite lack of proof; the loyalty and devotion of a person to a religion, cause, or organization.

Examples

• She had faith in her abilities and took the leap of faith to start her own business.
• The community put their faith in the new leader to guide them through the crisis.

Synonyms

• Trust
• Belief
• Spirituality

Antonyms

• Doubt
• Skepticism

Additional Information

Faith is a complex and multifaceted concept that can be understood in various ways. It can be seen as a source of comfort, strength, and guidance, but also as a source of conflict, division, and debate. In many cultures and societies, faith plays a significant role in shaping individual and collective identity, morality, and values.

Faith can also be a personal and subjective experience, shaped by individual beliefs, experiences, and emotions. It can be expressed through rituals, practices, and traditions, and can provide a sense of community and belonging. However, faith can also be a source of tension and conflict, particularly when different beliefs and values clash.

Etimology

The word “faith” originates from the Old English word “fæth”, which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word “*faithiz”, meaning “to trust”. This is also related to the Proto-Indo-European root “*bheidh-“, which carries connotations of confidence and reliance.

Usage Notes

Faith can be used in various contexts, including religious, spiritual, and secular settings. It can refer to a specific belief system, a personal conviction, or a general sense of trust and confidence. When using the word, it’s essential to be sensitive to the cultural and personal connotations it may carry.

Cultural References

Faith has been a central theme in many works of literature, art, and music throughout history. Examples include Dante’s Divine Comedy, John Milton’s Paradise Lost, and George Michael’s song “Faith”.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Leap of faith
• Act of faith
• Faith healer

Related Words or Phrases

• Spirituality
• Religion
• Morality

Collocations

• Faith in God
• Faith in humanity
• Faith in oneself

Frequency of Use

Faith is a relatively common word in modern language, with an estimated frequency of 0.05% in written English.

Common Misspellings

• Faithe
• Fathe
• Fayth