believe: Meaning and Definition of

be•lieve

Pronunciation: (bi-lēv'), [key]
— v., -lieved, -liev•ing.
—v.i.
  1. to have confidence in the truth, the existence, or the reliability of something, although without absolute proof that one is right in doing so: Only if one believes in something can one act purposefully.
—v.t.
  1. to have confidence or faith in the truth of (a positive assertion, story, etc.); give credence to.
  2. to have confidence in the assertions of (a person).
  3. to have a conviction that (a person or thing) is, has been, or will be engaged in a given action or involved in a given situation: The fugitive is believed to be headed for the Mexican border.
  4. to suppose or assume; understand (usually fol. by a noun clause): I believe that he has left town.
  5. to believe in Zoroastrianism; to believe in ghosts.
    1. to be persuaded of the truth or existence of:to believe in Zoroastrianism; to believe in ghosts.
    2. to have faith in the reliability, honesty, benevolence, etc., of:I can help only if you believe in me.
  6. See(def. 46).
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.
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