VocabDictionary

believes

/bɪˈliːvz/beginner Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

Accepts something as true, real, or factual, or holds a firm conviction or religious faith (third-person singular present indicative of 'believe').

Example Sentences:
  • She firmly believes that education is the most powerful tool for changing the world.
  • He believes in standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “believes”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Third-person singular present form of 'believe', which comes from Middle English 'beleven' and Old English 'belēfan' or 'geleafan' (to hold dear, trust). It stems from Proto-West Germanic '*ga-laubijan', derived from the root meaning 'dear' or 'love' (cognate with 'love' and 'furlough'). The 'i' spelling developed in Middle English under the influence of French-derived words like 'relieve'.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

To remember the spelling of beLIEves, notice that it has 'LIE' in the middle: Never beLIEve a LIE.

Frequently Asked Questions About “believes

1. What is the meaning of “believes” in English?

In English, believes (verb) is defined as: “Accepts something as true, real, or factual, or holds a firm conviction or religious faith (third-person singular present indicative of 'believe').”.

2. How do you use “believes” in a sentence?

She firmly believes that education is the most powerful tool for changing the world.

3. What are English synonyms of “believes”?

Common synonyms include:trusts,accepts,holds,considers,maintains

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “believes”?

Third-person singular present form of 'believe', which comes from Middle English 'beleven' and Old English 'belēfan' or 'geleafan' (to hold dear, trust). It stems from Proto-West Germanic '*ga-laubijan', derived from the root meaning 'dear' or 'love' (cognate with 'love' and 'furlough'). The 'i' spelling developed in Middle English under the influence of French-derived words like 'relieve'.