# incredulous

/ˌɪnˈkɹɛdʒəɫəs/ (US) · /ɪnkɹˈɛdjʊləs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/incredulous
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

feeling that something is so surprising or unlikely that you cannot believe it is true. You use this when you hear a story that seems impossible.

For teachers: feeling or showing that something is so unlikely or surprising as to be difficult to believe. Often used to describe a facial expression or a skeptical reaction to a claim.

## Examples

- He gave an incredulous look when he heard the news.
- The crowd responded with an incredulous silence after the magician revealed the impossible trick.
- She wore an incredulous smile as she read the letter, struggling to reconcile the generous offer with the company's recent financial struggles.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.