What does honest mean?
Honest describes a person, statement, or action marked by truthfulness and sincerity. An honest person does not deliberately mislead others, and an honest account represents what the speaker believes to be true. The word can also describe conduct that is fair and free from deception, as in “an honest deal,” or an effort made genuinely and sincerely, as in “an honest attempt.” In conversation, “honest” is often used to introduce a candid opinion or acknowledge an uncomfortable truth: “To be honest, I prefer the second option.” Its positive connotation makes it stronger than simply “correct”: honesty is commonly associated with fairness, integrity, and a willingness to tell the truth even when doing so is difficult.
adjectiveTruthful and sincere, especially in speech or conduct. It can also mean free from deception, fraud, or unfairness.
- Truthful and straightforward, especially in what someone says.
- Free from deception, fraud, or unfairness; genuine and trustworthy.
"She gave an honest account of what had happened."
"The witness gave an honest description of the incident."
"They made an honest attempt to finish the work despite the difficult conditions."
An honest answer can be uncomfortable—and that is often exactly why it is worth giving.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does honest come from?
The adjective comes from Latin honestus, meaning “honorable” or “upright,” and ultimately from honor. English borrowed the word in the Middle English period, when it referred to honorable or respectable behavior. The related modern words honor, honorable, honorary, honesty, and honestly preserve the same historical connection with dignity, reputation, and upright conduct.
Related word forms
How honest is actually used
Honest is commonly used for both truthful speech and morally upright conduct. It is generally a positive word, although “an honest mistake” uses it to emphasize that a mistake was made sincerely rather than through deception or carelessness.
Easily confused with honest
An honest person tells the truth and acts truthfully, whereas an honorable person acts according to high moral or ethical principles, whether or not their conduct is directly about truthfulness.