suspicion

Universal Words noun 1 [U,C] ~ (that...) a feeling that sb has done sth wrong, illegal or dishonest, even though you have no proof: They drove away slowly to avoid arousing suspicion. * He was arrested on suspicion of murder. * I have a sneaking suspicion that she's not telling the truth. * My suspicions were confirmed when police raided the property. * She was reluctant to voice her suspicions. * His resignation seemed only to fuel suspicions. * It's time to confront him with our suspicions. seealsoSUSPECT 2 [C] ~ (that...) a feeling or belief that sth is true, even though you have no proof: I have a horrible suspicion that we've come to the wrong station. 3 [U,C] the feeling that you cannot trust sb/sth: Their offer was greeted with some suspicion. * Water from shallow wells should be regarded with suspicion, as it may be contaminated. 4 [sing.] ~ of sth (formal) a small amount of sth SYNHINT: His mouth quivered in the suspicion of a smile. * Wasn't there even a suspicion of truth in what he said? IDIOMS above / beyond suspicion too good, honest, etc. to have done sth wrong, illegal or dishonest: Nobody who was near the scene of the crime is above suspicion. under suspicion (of sth) suspected of doing sth wrong, illegal or dishonest: The whole family is currently under suspicion of her murder. * A number of surgeons came under suspicion of unethical behaviour. moreatFINGERn.