insubstantial

in·sub·stan·tial

adj \ˌin(t)-səb-ˈstan(t)-shəl\

Definition of INSUBSTANTIAL

: not substantial: as a : lacking substance or material nature b : lacking firmness or solidity : flimsy

— in·sub·stan·ti·al·i·ty \-ˌstan(t)-shē-ˈa-lə-tē\ noun

Examples of INSUBSTANTIAL

1. Their contribution to the fund was insubstantial.
2. as insubstantial as a ghost

Origin of INSUBSTANTIAL

probably from French insubstantiel, from Late Latin insubstantialis, from Latin in- + Late Latin substantialis substantial

First Known Use: 1607

Related to INSUBSTANTIAL

Synonyms: cobwebby, filmy, frothy, gauzy, gossamer, gossamery, flimsy, sleazy, unsubstantial

Antonyms: sturdy, substantial

Related Words: dainty, delicate, fine; feeble, fragile, frail; diaphanous, sheer, transparent

Near Antonyms: durable, knockabout, lasting, tough; coarse, heavy, rough, rude

see all synonyms and antonyms

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