at heart

ADVERB

in reality

Synonyms

WEAK

at bottom basically deep down fundamentally in essence in spite of appearance inside

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But Stephania lived in turmoil, because she was a feminist at heart.

From Salon • Jun. 8, 2026

The longer you live, the more likely you are to realize that not everyone has your best interests at heart.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

A man - well over 70 - jokes that taking part in this social media spectacle is helping him "become younger at heart".

From BBC • May 12, 2026

Just know that, whoever did it, they’re driving now, and they don’t have our best interests at heart.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

I felt mixed up, grateful, and sick at heart.

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver