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

His comments were often comedic due to their bluntness and lack of sophistication. —Marc Berman, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024

His jazz roots influenced his work across genres, bringing a sense of sophistication and complexity to popular music, while making jazz more accessible to broader audiences. —David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024

Not only was this Amazon find featured on Oprah’s list, but they are also guaranteed to add a touch of sophistication to your table setting. —Mia Meltzer, Rolling Stone, 31 Oct. 2024

The level of technological sophistication is evident in Xiaomi Corp. —Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune Asia, 28 Oct. 2024

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