sophistication

noun

so·​phis·​ti·​ca·​tion sə-ˌfi-stə-ˈkā-shən 

1

a

: the use of sophistry : sophistic reasoning

b

: sophism, quibble

2

: the process or result of becoming cultured, knowledgeable, or disillusioned

especially : cultivation, urbanity

3

: the process or result of becoming more complex, developed, or subtle

Synonyms

• complexity
• complexness
• complicacy
• complicatedness
• complication
• elaborateness
• intricacy
• intricateness
• involution
• knottiness

Examples of sophistication in a Sentence

the engine's sophistication requires that all repairs be done by an experienced mechanic

Recent Examples on the Web

Cybercriminals are increasingly leveraging AI to enhance the sophistication and scale of their attacks. —Skip Sanzeri, Forbes, 24 Jan. 2025

Quirky, outspoken, and utterly Floridian, Irvin is as much Vero Beach as the latest tycoon to get hooked on the community’s unique blend of sophistication and authentic, flip-flop fun. —Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 21 Jan. 2025

This monumental discovery highlights the sophistication of the Maya civilization, with its intricate architecture and urban planning. —Stories By Real-Time News Team, With Ai Summarization, Miami Herald, 17 Jan. 2025

As the digital transformation in education progresses, both the frequency and sophistication of attacks have increased. —Michael Gfoeller and David H. Rundell, Newsweek, 16 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Medical Definition

sophistication

noun

so·​phis·​ti·​ca·​tion sə-ˌfis-tə-ˈkā-shən 

: the process or result of making impure or weak : adulteration

sophistication of a drug