genuine

Genuine is an adjective used to describe something that is truly what it is claimed to be: authentic, real, and not fake. The term can refer to objects, materials, and products that meet established standards of origin or composition, such as genuine leather or genuine gemstones, where authenticity is verified by origin, material, or craftsmanship. It can also describe people or attitudes: a genuine person is sincere and honest, not feigned or hypocritical; a genuine interest or concern is authentic rather than performative.

Etymology: genuine derives from Latin genuinus, meaning natural or true, through Old French into English. The sense emphasizes alignment with a standard or origin rather than mere appearance.

In usage, genuine contrasts with counterfeit, imitation, or artificial. In philosophy and epistemology, genuine belief or genuine knowledge refers to a belief or claim that is truly held or well-founded, rather than merely asserted.

Common synonyms include authentic, real, bona fide, and sincere, while antonyms include fake, counterfeit, sham, and feigned. The word is versatile across domains: consumer labeling, interpersonal description, and discussions about authenticity and truth.