verb

methinks

mih-THIHNGKS

Methinks (verb) means an old-fashioned or humorous way of saying "it seems to me" or "I think". Example: “Methinks the lady doth protest too much.”

verb

An old-fashioned or humorous way of saying "it seems to me" or "I think".

"Methinks the lady doth protest too much."

"Methinks we should leave before the storm hits."

How to use methinks

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn archaic way to say "I think" — mostly used jokingly today.

When to use it

Archaic; used today mainly for humorous or mock-Shakespearean effect.

Word forms

methought past tense

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_____ the lady doth protest too much.

Etymology

From Old English mē þynceþ ("it seems to me"), combining me with an old verb meaning "to seem" — not historically related to the verb think, despite the resemblance.

Origin: Old English

Frequently asked questions

What does “methinks” mean?

The word “methinks” means an old-fashioned or humorous way of saying "it seems to me" or "I think". In plain terms, an archaic way to say "I think" — mostly used jokingly today.

How do you pronounce “methinks”?

“Methinks” is pronounced mih-THIHNGKS (/miˈθɪŋks/ in IPA).

How do you use “methinks” in a sentence?

Here is “methinks” used in a sentence: “Methinks the lady doth protest too much.”

What part of speech is “methinks”?

“Methinks” is a verb.

Where does the word “methinks” come from?

The word “methinks” comes from Old English. From Old English mē þynceþ ("it seems to me"), combining me with an old verb meaning "to seem" — not historically related to the verb think, despite the resemblance.