authentic
Pronunciation: [ɔːˈθɛntɪk]
Context: "truthfulness"
(adjective) something that is real and not fake. If something is authentic, it is the real deal. For example, an authentic painting is the original artwork, not a copy.
Example
The museum displayed an authentic dinosaur skeleton that scientists found years ago.
Example
The necklace looked fancy, but it wasn't authentic; it was just a cheap imitation.
Example
How can we tell if this ancient artifact is authentic?
Context: "identity"
(adjective) being true to oneself. When a person is authentic, they act like themselves and are honest about who they are, instead of pretending to be someone else.
Example
She was very authentic in her speech, sharing her true experiences and feelings.
Example
He wasn't authentic during the interview; he tried to sound like someone he wasn't.
Example
Do you think it's important to be authentic in friendships?
Context: "cultural context"
(adjective) something that closely reflects traditional customs or origins. An authentic dish serves the traditional way of cooking, not a modern or altered version.
Example
The restaurant is known for serving authentic Italian food made with traditional recipes.
Example
The pasta dish tasted good, but it felt too Americanized to be authentic Italian.
Example
What makes a dish authentic in its cultural background?