cynicism

noun

cyn·​i·​cism ˈsi-nə-ˌsi-zəm How to pronounce cynicism (audio)
Synonyms of cynicism
1
Cynicism : 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.
The punch-worthy parody of Altman’s characterization ramps up once he’s motivated to push back against — or trample over — the safety guardrails that Ilya prizes above all else, but so does the depth of his world-breaking cynicism. — David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 6 Oct. 2026 Sigurd’s departure only deepens this cynicism, which Livia clings to for 27 years — until the pair reconnect on the phone for a truly excruciating conversation. — Sam Worley, Vulture, 5 Oct. 2026 In a scene at the beginning of Episode 8, actor Siena Agudong, who plays Sue, expresses Flanagan’s belief that sincerely openhearted people like Carrie are met with rejection and seen as alien in a world where cynicism is our default mode. — Carlos Aguilar, Los Angeles Times, 5 Oct. 2026 That undercurrent of cynicism will be a challenge for Democrats and the Republicans, no matter which party controls Congress. — ABC News, 3 Oct. 2026 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

Rhymes for cynicism

See All Rhymes for cynicism

Browse Nearby Words

cynically
cynicism
cynic spasm
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cynicism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cynicism. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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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

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