How Do You Spell INSIDIOUS?

Pronunciation: [ɪnsˈɪdɪəs] (IPA)

Insidious is a word that can be tricky to spell due to its unusual combination of letters. Its phonetic transcription is /ɪnˈsɪdiəs/, with emphasis on the second syllable. The "i" after the "n" can be easily confused with an "a" sound, so it's important to remember that it's an "i" sound. Additionally, the "o" that follows might be mistaken for an "a" or "u". In order to spell insidious correctly, it's important to pay attention to the phonetic transcription and letter combinations.

INSIDIOUS Meaning and Definition

  1. Insidious is an adjective that is commonly used to describe a particular kind of harmful or dangerous behavior or influence, often characterized by being subtle, stealthy, or deceitful. It refers to something or someone that operates gradually and inconspicuously, with the intention of causing harm or damage.

    The term is often associated with negative or malicious intentions, as it refers to actions that are carried out in a cunning or sly manner. An insidious act or influence typically works its way into a situation or person's life, often by appearing innocent or beneficial at first, but gradually reveals its harmful nature over time.

    Furthermore, something insidious is often difficult to detect or recognize, making it all the more dangerous. It can be a gradual process that goes unnoticed until its effects become impossible to ignore. Insidious behavior is usually characterized by its ability to manipulate and deceive, to undermine or damage something or someone without immediate awareness or suspicion.

    For example, insidious propaganda may influence people's attitudes and beliefs without them realizing it, while an insidious disease might develop and spread quietly within the body, only coming to light once it has already created significant damage. In summary, the term "insidious" refers to a harmful or destructive force that is deceitful, subtle, and often goes undetected until its effects are fully realized.

  2. Treacherous, stealthy; noting a disease which progresses with few or no symptoms to indicate its gravity.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. Deceitful; sly; treacherous; intended to ensnare or entrap.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for INSIDIOUS *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for INSIDIOUS

Etymology of INSIDIOUS

The word "insidious" has its roots in the Latin language. It is derived from the Latin word "insidiosus", which means "deceitful" or "cunning". The Latin word, in turn, comes from the noun "insidiae", meaning "ambush" or "plot". The concept of something being insidious refers to a hidden or treacherous threat that gradually and subtly undermines, deceives, or causes harm.

Similar spelling words for INSIDIOUS

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