Suspicious
Having or showing a cautious distrust of someone or something; likely to arouse suspicion.
adjectiveSuspicious
Having or showing a cautious distrust of someone or something; likely to arouse suspicion.
adjectiveImagine This
Imagine you're handed a contract at a shady booth. The fine print looks odd, the dates don’t match, and the seller avoids eye contact. Your instinct tells you to be suspicious and you pause to verify the details.
Sounds Like
suh-SPISH-uhs
Looks Like
Looks like the word 'suspect' and 'suspicion'—they share the same root and meaning.
Remember This
Suspicious and suspect share a common root about doubt. In law, suspicion can lead to the higher standard of probable cause; not every suspicious feeling is a crime.
Other Forms
Connect With
distrust, wariness, skepticism, doubt, caution
Note
Common usage: 'suspicious of' someone or 'suspicious that' something happened. Do not confuse with 'suspense' (a sense of anticipation) or 'suspiciously' (adverb).