skeptical

adjective

skep·​ti·​cal ˈskep-ti-kəl 

: relating to, characteristic of, or marked by skepticism

a skeptical listener

skeptically

ˈskep-ti-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Synonyms

• disbelieving
• distrustful
• doubting
• incredulous
• mistrustful
• negativistic
• questioning
• show-me
• suspecting
• suspicious
• unbelieving

Examples of skeptical in a Sentence

She's highly skeptical of the researchers' claims.

He says he can win, but I remain skeptical.

When I said I'd finished my homework early, Mom looked skeptical.

Recent Examples on the Web

But many scientists were skeptical whether the technique would pay off. —Shi En Kim, Smithsonian Magazine, 1 Apr. 2025

However, many remain skeptical that any real clarity is coming anytime soon. —Sarah Min, CNBC, 1 Apr. 2025

Countries across the region are justifiably skeptical of any U.S. attempt to define the boundaries of their relationships with other powers. —Matias Spektor, Foreign Affairs, 1 Apr. 2025

But economists are skeptical that these tariffs can bring in as much as Mr. Trump claims, as consumers will likely reduce their spending on foreign goods when prices go up. —Laura Doan, CBS News, 1 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1639, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for skeptical

• sceptical
• receptacle

Kids Definition

skeptical

adjective

skep·​ti·​cal ˈskep-ti-kəl 

: relating to or marked by doubt

skeptically

-k(ə-)lē 

adverb