WordGarden.iotreacherous
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /trˈɛtʃərəs/
US
- /ˈtrɛtʃərəs/
Meanings
Adjective
ready to betray trust or act in a disloyal, deceptive way
dangerous because conditions are unstable, deceptive, or hard to navigate safely
Beyond the definition
Imagine sailing on water that looks calm and bright. It seems safe, but hidden rocks and strong currents are waiting underneath. That is the idea behind "treacherous." The word describes something that seems safe or harmless but is actually dangerous. It can also describe a person who cannot be trusted and may deceive or betray you. Think of an icy path in winter. It looks firm, but one step can make you fall.
The word often brings to mind rough places and hard journeys, but it also fits human behavior. A treacherous friend may act kind to your face while secretly working against you. In both cases, the danger is not always obvious at first.
"Treacherous" describes something that is dangerously deceptive, unstable, or likely to betray trust. It does not just mean dangerous. It suggests a hidden risk, the kind that is easy to miss until it causes harm.
The word is often used for places and conditions. A mountain path can be treacherous because of loose rocks, steep drops, or sudden changes in weather. A road can be treacherous when ice makes it look safe even though it is slippery. Water can be treacherous when strong currents, deep holes, or hidden objects lie below the surface. In these cases, the common idea is that the danger is real but not obvious.
The word is also used for people and situations. A treacherous person is not loyal or honest. They may pretend to help while secretly causing harm. A treacherous ally, for example, may seem friendly but may betray you when it matters most. The word can also describe situations such as politics, business, or personal relationships when trust is weak and the risks are hard to see.
In stories, the word often appears in scenes of storms, dangerous travel, or betrayal. That is why it carries a strong feeling of hidden danger. When something is described as "treacherous," you should be careful: it may look manageable at first, but it can quickly turn against you.
Examples
- 1
Mountain path
The mountain path becomes treacherous after heavy rain.
- 2
Driving
The bridge looked safe, but the icy surface was too treacherous to drive on.
- 3
Betrayal
It was treacherous of him to leak the plans after promising to keep them secret.
- Patterntreacherous of someone to do X
showing betrayal by doing X
- 4
Memory
Memory can be treacherous, especially when you are tired or upset.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Political risk
After the scandal, the mayor was trying to navigate treacherous political waters.
- Phrasenavigate treacherous waters
deal with a difficult and risky situation
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- treacherousadjective