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| n. pl. truths(trthz, trths) 1. a. Conformity to fact or actuality: Does this story have any truth? b. Reality; actuality: In truth, he was not qualified for the job. c. The reality of a situation: The truth is, she respects your work. 2. a. A statement proven to be or accepted as true: truths about nature. b. Such statements considered as a group: researchers in pursuit of truth. 3. Sincerity; integrity: the truth of his intentions. 4. Fidelity to an original or standard: the truth of the copy. 5. a. Theology & Philosophy That which is considered to be the ultimate ground of reality. b. Logic The positive (true) truth-value. [Middle English trewthe, loyalty, from Old English trēowth; see deru- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] Synonyms: truth, veracity, verity, verisimilitude These nouns refer to the quality of being in accord with fact or reality. Truth is a comprehensive term that in all of its nuances implies accuracy and honesty: “We seek the truth, and will endure the consequences” (Charles Seymour). Veracity is adherence to the truth: “Veracity is the heart of morality” (Thomas H. Huxley). Verity often applies to an enduring or repeatedly demonstrated truth: “beliefs that were accepted as eternal verities” (James Harvey Robinson). Verisimilitude is the quality of having the appearance of truth or reality: “merely corroborative detail, intended to give artistic verisimilitude to an otherwise bald and unconvincing narrative” (W.S. Gilbert). |
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