Want to say insidious differently? Here are other words for insidious and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.
Meaning of insidious
The primary meaning of "insidious" is stealthy or sneaky, often in a way that is intended to harm or deceive.
Etymology of insidious
The word "insidious" comes from the Latin "insidiosus", which means "cunning" or "deceitful", derived from "insidia", meaning "ambush" or "snare", and the suffix "-osus", which forms an adjective indicating a tendency or quality
Historically, the word has been used to describe actions or behaviors that are intended to harm or deceive others in a stealthy or cunning manner
Synonyms
stealthy
sneaky
cunning
crafty
sly
deceitful
treacherous
duplicitous
double-dealing
underhanded
unscrupulous
dishonest
disingenuous
fraudulent
corrupt
corrupting
pernicious
malignant
harmful
damaging
destructive
deleterious
injurious
noxious
baneful
baleful
invidious
odious
abhorrent
detestable
heinous
atrocious
villainous
nefarious
wicked
evil
malevolent
malignant
vicious
virulent
poisonous
toxic
deadly
fatal
lethal
mortal
perfidious
perfidious
traitorous
treacherous
backhanded
indirect
covert
furtive
clandestine
surreptitious
secretive
hidden
concealed
veiled
disguised
masked
camouflaged
Definitions
- Having a gradual and cumulative effect, often in a way that is intended to harm or deceive
- * Proceeding in a gradual, subtle, and often stealthy manner, often with the intention of causing harm or damage
Usage Examples
- The insidious spread of the disease had a devastating impact on the community
- * The company's insidious marketing tactics were designed to manipulate consumers into buying their products
- * The insidious nature of the virus made it difficult to detect and treat
Antonyms
obvious
overt
explicit
clear
transparent
honest
straightforward
direct
open
forthright
sincere
genuine
truthful
trustworthy
reliable
faithful
loyal
aboveboard
candid
frank
blunt
straightforward
upright
virtuous
righteous
just
fair
equitable
harmless
benign
beneficial
helpful
advantageous
favorable
propitious
auspicious