insidious
adjective
Proceeding in a gradual, subtle way, but with harmful effects; treacherous; crafty.
Etymology
From Latin insidiosus "deceitful, cunning," from insidiae "ambush, plot," from insidere "to sit in, lie in wait," from in- + sedere "to sit."
Examples in Use
- 1.
"The insidious disease progressed without obvious symptoms."
- 2.
"Propaganda has an insidious effect on public opinion."
- 3.
"The insidious rumor slowly destroyed her reputation."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
Insidious literally means "sitting in ambush"—hidden danger that attacks gradually. The word captures threats that are more dangerous because they're not immediately obvious.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 9 letters (I, N, S, I, D, I, O, U, S)
Scrabble Value: 10 points
Tip: Words ending in "US" are often good scoring opportunities.
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