INSECURE

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

IPA (US):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does insecure mean? 

• INSECURE (adjective)
  The adjective INSECURE has 4 senses:

1. not firm or firmly fixed; likely to fail or give way

2. lacking in security or safety

3. lacking self-confidence or assurance

4. not safe from attack

  Familiarity information: INSECURE used as an adjective is uncommon.

 Dictionary entry details 

• INSECURE (adjective)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Not firm or firmly fixed; likely to fail or give way

Context example:

the hinge is insecure

Also:

unfixed (not firmly placed or set or fastened)

Antonym:

secure (not likely to fail or give way)

Sense 2

Meaning:

Lacking in security or safety

Synonyms:

insecure; unsafe

Context example:

an insecure future

Similar:

precarious; shaky (not secure; beset with difficulties)

unguaranteed; unsecured (without financial security)

Also:

unprotected (lacking protection or defense)

dangerous; unsafe (involving or causing danger or risk; liable to hurt or harm)

vulnerable (susceptible to attack)

Antonym:

secure (free from danger or risk)

Derivation:

insecureness (the state of being exposed to risk or anxiety)

insecurity (the state of being subject to danger or injury)

Sense 3

Meaning:

Lacking self-confidence or assurance

Context example:

an insecure person lacking mental stability

Similar:

overanxious (anxious or nervous to an excessive degree)

unassured (lacking boldness or confidence)

Antonym:

secure (free from fear or doubt; easy in mind)

Derivation:

insecureness (the state of being exposed to risk or anxiety)

insecurity (the anxiety you experience when you feel vulnerable and insecure)

Sense 4

Meaning:

Not safe from attack

Synonyms:

insecure; unsafe

Similar:

vulnerable (susceptible to attack)

Derivation:

insecureness (the state of being exposed to risk or anxiety)

insecurity (the state of being subject to danger or injury)