FORSOOTH

forsooth

(adverb) an archaic word originally meaning ‘in truth’ but now usually used to express disbelief

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology

Adverb

forsooth (not comparable)

(archaic or poetic) Used as an intensifier, often ironic: indeed, really, truthfully.

Synonyms: in point of fact, in truth, to tell the truth, Thesaurus:actually

Source: Wiktionary

For*sooth", adv. Etym: [AS. forso\'eb; for, prep. + so\'eb sooth, truth. See For, prep., and Sooth.]

Definition: In truth; in fact; certainly; very well; -- formerly used as an expression of deference or respect, especially to woman; now used ironically or contemptuously. A fit man, forsooth, to govern a realm! Hayward. Our old English word forsooth has been changed for the French madam. Guardian.

For*sooth", v. t.

Definition: To address respectfully with the term forsooth. [Obs.] The captain of the "Charles" had forsoothed her, though he knew her well enough and she him. Pepys.

For*sooth", n.

Definition: A person who used forsooth much; a very ceremonious and deferential person. [R.] You sip so like a forsooth of the city. B. Jonson.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition