skeptic

noun

skep·​tic ˈskep-tik How to pronounce skeptic (audio)
Synonyms of skeptic
1
: an adherent or advocate of skepticism
2
: a person disposed to skepticism especially regarding religion or religious principles

Synonyms of skeptic

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Examples of skeptic in a Sentence

Skeptics have pointed out flaws in the researchers' methods. You can believe in ghosts if you like, but I'm still a skeptic. He is a skeptic and a cynic.
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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.
She is hired by Teiko (Tae Kimura) to clear a ghost from his sleek countryside hotel while her son, Gunji (Kento Kaku), brings a Dana Scully energy as the supernatural skeptic. — David Faris, TheWeek, 5 Oct. 2026 In addition to skeptics like Putiata, few Ukrainian troops were trained to use these new weapons. — Greg Myre, NPR, 5 Oct. 2026 Yet among skeptics, questions and doubts remain on the safety of chemical entities, fragrances included. — Christopher Reynolds, Los Angeles Times, 3 Oct. 2026 Back in 1964, even a relatively enlightened critic like Robert Shelton, who played a pivotal role in introducing Bob Dylan to a national audience three years before, was a Beatles skeptic. — Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 2 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for skeptic

Word History

Etymology

Latin or Greek; Latin scepticus, from Greek skeptikos, from skeptikos thoughtful, from skeptesthai to look, consider — more at spy

First Known Use

1587, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of skeptic was in 1587

Rhymes for skeptic

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Browse Nearby Words

skepsis
skeptic
skeptical
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Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

skeptic

noun
skep·​tic ˈskep-tik How to pronounce skeptic (audio)
: a person slow to believe or ready to question : doubter
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