cynicism

noun

cyn·​i·​cism ˈsi-nə-ˌsi-zəm How to pronounce cynicism (audio)
1
capitalized : the doctrine of the Cynics (see cynic sense 2)
2
: cynical attitude or quality
Nothing could change her cynicism about politics.
also : a cynical comment or act
pungent cynicisms

Examples of cynicism in a Sentence

Nothing could change her cynicism about politics.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Conversely, those who fail to clearly define and protect autonomy inadvertently—or, in some cases, very deliberately—foster organizational cynicism, distrust, and disengagement. Dan Pontefract, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025 As Laz points out, there’s a healthy dose of cynicism in the market. Sean McIndoe, New York Times, 7 Apr. 2025 Also, some felt the Q&A with James Gunn, Peter Safran and cast went a little too long on Superman, and there was cynicism from some in the media over the whole robots tending to the Man of Steel in the Fortress of Solitude. Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 5 Apr. 2025 Indeed, cynicism may be too soft a word for the performance that NPR’s congressional allies put on last week. Noah Rothman, National Review, 2 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cynicism

Word History

Etymology

see cynic

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of cynicism was in 1606

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Cite this Entry

“Cynicism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cynicism. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

cynicism

noun
cyn·​i·​cism ˈsin-ə-ˌsiz-əm How to pronounce cynicism (audio)
: a cynical attitude or quality
also : an expression of cynical quality

More from Merriam-Webster on cynicism

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