Perfidious (/pərˈfɪdiəs/) is a word which means deceitful or treacherous. Its spelling may seem daunting, but it follows the common English pronunciation rules. The first syllable, "per," is pronounced with a schwa, while the second syllable, "fid," is pronounced with a long "i" sound. The ending is pronounced with a stress on the "o" and a schwa sound before the final "s". In essence, "perfidious" is pronounced with stress on the second syllable and a short "e" sound in the first and the last syllable.
Perfidious is an adjective that refers to a person's behavior or actions marked by deceit, betrayal, or treachery. This term is often employed to describe someone who consistently acts against trust or loyalty, proving to be unfaithful or dishonest in their relationships, commitments, or promises.
A perfidious individual is characterized by their unreliability, as they are prone to breach agreements or obligations without warning or remorse. They often disguise their true intentions, leading others to believe they can be trusted when, in reality, they hold ulterior motives. This behavior can manifest in both personal relationships, such as friendships or romantic partnerships, and in professional contexts, like business transactions or workplace collaborations.
The perfidious nature of a person is reflected in their ability to manipulate others, using charm or deceit to gain an advantage. They may exploit vulnerabilities in those they interact with, betraying confidences and disregarding personal boundaries. This calculated approach allows them to take advantage of people's trust and exploit any vulnerabilities for their own self-interests.
Given its negative connotation, the term "perfidious" is often used to criticize or censure someone's actions or behavior. It encapsulates a sense of deep disappointment and a breach of trust. The word serves as a warning to others to be cautious when dealing with individuals who exhibit perfidious tendencies, as their deceitfulness can have serious consequences for those who place their trust in them.
• Treacherous.
• False to trust or confidence reposed in; treacherous; proceeding from treachery; false-hearted.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The term perfidious is derived from the Latin word perfidiosus, which means treacherous or faithless. It comes from the Latin word perfidia, which refers to betrayal or deceit. The word perfidious entered English through Middle French, where it was spelled as perfidieux or perfitious.