cynicism
noun
cyn·i·cism
ˈsi-nə-ˌsi-zəm 
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
That’s a cultural moment of cynicism and change where institutions and icons are being questioned.
—
Ari Daniel, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 July 2025
Croatian literature, at least back then, was largely dominated by historical and war traumas, and the storytelling was often deeply mired in irony, satire, and even cynicism; oftentimes relying on shocking the reader in order to hook them or evoke emotion.
—Lidija Hilje
july 8, Literary Hub, 8 July 2025
An early scene between Lois and Clark beautifully sets up the conflict in their relationship between his positivity and sunny outlook for the world and her downright cynicism.
—Pete Hammond, Deadline, 8 July 2025
After Chin’s announcement, Allan Reiver, the late owner of the gallery and the garden, opened it to the public in what was either an act of incredible coincidence or deep cynicism.
—Matthew Sedacca, Curbed, 23 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for cynicism
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Ari Daniel, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 July 2025
Croatian literature, at least back then, was largely dominated by historical and war traumas, and the storytelling was often deeply mired in irony, satire, and even cynicism; oftentimes relying on shocking the reader in order to hook them or evoke emotion.
—Lidija Hilje
july 8, Literary Hub, 8 July 2025
An early scene between Lois and Clark beautifully sets up the conflict in their relationship between his positivity and sunny outlook for the world and her downright cynicism.
—Pete Hammond, Deadline, 8 July 2025
After Chin’s announcement, Allan Reiver, the late owner of the gallery and the garden, opened it to the public in what was either an act of incredible coincidence or deep cynicism.
—Matthew Sedacca, Curbed, 23 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for cynicism
Cite this Entry
“Cynicism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cynicism. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
cynicism
noun
cyn·i·cism
ˈsin-ə-ˌsiz-əm
: a cynical attitude or quality
also
: an expression of cynical quality
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