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treacherous

adjective

/ˈtrɛtʃ(ə)rəs/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of treacherous

Untrustworthy, deceitful, and likely to betray trust or confidence.
"The treacherous behavior of the politician was a violation of the public's trust."

Detailed meaning of treacherous

In this sense, it signifies a lack of loyalty or a willingness to harm or deceive others, often for personal gain or hidden motives. A treacherous person may feign friendship or loyalty while secretly planning to betray or deceive those who trust them. Treacherous actions can have far-reaching and damaging consequences, as they involve the violation of trust and the breaking of commitments. This term conveys a sense of danger in relationships and situations where betrayal and deceit are possible, emphasizing the need for caution and discernment when dealing with treacherous individuals or circumstances.

Example sentences containing treacherous

1. His treacherous betrayal shattered trust beyond repair.
2. Treacherous plots weave intricate webs of deceit and danger.
3. Treacherous conditions demand expert navigation and caution.
4. Surviving treacherous office politics is a professional challenge.
5. Relying on his treacherous advice proved disastrous in the end.
6. Climbers braved treacherous terrain, facing constant risks.

History and etymology of treacherous

The adjective 'treacherous' has its etymological origins in Latin and Old French. It is derived from the Latin word 'treacherus,' which means 'guilty of trespass' or 'deceptive.' This Latin term, in turn, is related to the Old French word 'trechereus,' meaning 'deceitful' or 'untrustworthy.' Over time, 'treacherous' made its way into English, retaining its sense of being untrustworthy, deceitful, and likely to betray trust or confidence. The etymology of 'treacherous' reflects its historical association with deception and betrayal, highlighting the danger and untrustworthiness implied by the word.

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Further usage examples of treacherous

1. The path led to a treacherous hidden treasure, well-guarded.
2. Treacherous alliances crumble when trust erodes completely.
3. Treacherous behavior reveals one's true, untrustworthy character.
4. Innocent lives were endangered by the treacherous, life-threatening scheme.
5. They uncovered a complex web of treacherous deceit and betrayal.
6. Treacherous waters conceal hidden dangers and deadly creatures.
7. Diplomatic skills are crucial in navigating treacherous negotiations.
8. Her treacherous smile masked sinister intentions and deceit.
9. Treacherous weather conditions often delay and hinder journeys.
10. Lingering scars from the treacherous betrayal never fully healed.
11. Navigating the treacherous legal system demands expertise and caution.
12. The elusive criminal mastermind remained cunning and treacherous.
13. Shaky ground defines treacherous friendships, prone to betrayal.
14. Courage and resilience are essential for surviving the treacherous ordeal.
15. The treacherous terrain made it difficult for the hikers to reach their destination.
16. The treacherous nature of the sea was evident in the ship's capsizing.
17. The treacherous actions of the spy were a betrayal of his country.
18. The treacherous employee's actions caused significant damage to the company.
19. The treacherous weather conditions made it dangerous for the pilots to fly.
20. A blizzard swept in, creating treacherous conditions on the road.
21. The treacherous path led the travelers into a dangerous area.
22. The treacherous nature of the criminal was evident in his willingness to harm innocent people.
23. The treacherous road conditions made it dangerous for drivers to travel.
24. The treacherous mountain pass was known for its high number of accidents.
25. The treacherous nature of the river was caused by heavy rainfall.
26. The treacherous conditions of the battlefield made it dangerous for the soldiers to fight.