Gullibility
/ˌɡʌl.əˈbɪl.ə.ti/noun
The tendency to believe claims too readily or to be easily deceived.
Did you know?The word ultimately connects with the verb gull, whose early sense may have involved swallowing or gulping—an image later extended to someone who metaphorically “swallows” a lie.
Etymological Timeline
Middle English
English
gullen
“To deceive or trick; a possible early form related to gull.”
16th Century
English
gull
“A person who is easily deceived or imposed upon.”
16th–17th Century
English
gull
“To deceive, cheat, or take advantage of someone.”
Early 19th Century
English
gullible
“Easily deceived; ready to believe something without sufficient evidence.”
19th Century
English
gullibility
“The quality or condition of being gullible.”