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.
Liam Twomey: There has been a lot of understandable cynicism and some less justifiable snootiness about this competition from some quarters, but the fundamental reality of football is that if the players take it seriously, everyone else will. The Athletic Staff, New York Times, 28 June 2025 In the long run, however, the truth emerges, and opacity and deception merely undermine trust and amplify cynicism in the political system. Chicago Tribune, 23 June 2025 But gleeful cynicism is eternal and universal, especially when it’s delivered by Christopher Buckley, the author of Thank You for Smoking. Brian Boone, Vulture, 18 June 2025 To choose security over a passion that may be fleeting? Much of the humor in the film flows from Lucy’s cynicism about life and love. Scott Phillips, Forbes.com, 11 June 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cynicism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cynicism. Accessed 30 Jun. 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!