Disingenuous

Disingenuousness describes a special kind of dishonesty, or lack of candor: That is, the affectation of ignorance, naivete or innocence about the reality of a particular situation.

Thus, upon being pulled over for speeding, "What seems to be the problem, officer?" is disingenuous.

Dis`in*gen"u*ous (?), a.

1.

Not noble; unbecoming true honor or dignity; mean; unworthy; as, disingenuous conduct or schemes.

2.

Not ingenuous; wanting in noble candor or frankness; not frank or open; uncandid; unworthily or meanly artful.

So disingenuous as not to confess them [faults]. Pope.

-- Dis`in*gen"u*ous*ly, adv. T. Warton. -- Dis`in*gen"u*ous*ness, n.

Macaulay.

 

© Webster 1913.