Category:Forsooth

For*sooth", adv. Etym: [AS. forso\'eb; for, prep. + so\'eb sooth, truth. See For, prep., and Sooth.]

Defn: In truth; in fact; certainly; very well; -- formerly used as an expression of deference or respect, especially to woman; now used ironically or contemptuously. A fit man, forsooth, to govern a realm! Hayward. Our old English word forsooth has been changed for the French madam. Guardian.

FORSOOTH For*sooth", v. t.

Defn: To address respectfully with the term forsooth. [Obs.] The captain of the "Charles" had forsoothed her, though he knew her well enough and she him. Pepys.

FORSOOTH For*sooth", n.

Defn: A person who used forsooth much; a very ceremonious and deferential person. [R.] You sip so like a forsooth of the city. B. Jonson.