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

Where denim can be more casual, a blazer will add a touch of sophistication to the look. —Bianca Kratky, Glamour, 18 Apr. 2025

The frames are thin all the way around, for a barely-there look that gives you a sense of sophistication. —Christopher Murray, FOXNews.com, 17 Apr. 2025

His designs ooze elegance and sophistication, showcasing luxury products without flash. —Jeetendr Sehdev, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025

No other two words so fully represent the grandeur, sophistication, and elegance of France. —Jason O'Bryan, Robb Report, 12 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

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

Rhymes for sophistication

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration

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