online medical dictionary | definition of uncertain

1. Not certain; not having certain knowledge; not assured in mind; distrustful. "Man, without the protection of a superior Being, . . . Is uncertain of everything that he hopes for." (Tillotson)

2. Irresolute; inconsonant; variable; untrustworthy; as, an uncertain person; an uncertain breeze. "O woman! in our hours of ease, Uncertain, coy, and hard to please!" (Sir W. Scott)

3. Questionable; equivocal; indefinite; problematical. "The fashion of uncertain evils." "From certain dangers to uncertain praise." (Dryden)

4. Not sure; liable to fall or err; fallible. "Soon bent his bow, uncertain in his aim." (Dryden) "Whistling slings dismissed the uncertain stone." (Gay)

Synonyms: See Precarious.

Origin: Pref. Un- + certain. Cf. Incertain.

(01 Mar 1998)