Veritable means actual, real, or true, not imaginary or false. Derived from the Latin word 'verus' (true), it is often used to emphasize the accuracy or aptness of a metaphor.
Veritable means being in fact the thing named and not false or imaginary, related to the Latin word 'verus' for true, and often used to stress the aptness of a metaphor.
| Word | veritable |
|---|---|
| Date | May 6, 2008 |
| Type | adjective |
| Syllables | VAIR-uh-tuh-bul |
| Etymology | "Veritable," like its close relative "verity" ("truth"), came to English through Anglo-French from Latin. It is ultimately derived from "verus," the Latin word for "true," which also gave us "verify," "aver," and "verdict." "Veritable" is often used as a synonym of "genuine" or "authentic" ("a veritable masterpiece"), but it is also frequently used to stress the aptness of a metaphor, often in a humorous tone ("a veritable swarm of lawyers"). In the past, usage commentators have objected to the latter use, but today it doesn't draw much criticism. |
| Examples | Melissa is a veritable wellspring of information on local history and folklore. |
| Definition | : being in fact the thing named and not false, unreal, or imaginary |
Tags: wordoftheday::adjective
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