cognitive dissonance

noun

: psychological conflict resulting from incongruous beliefs and attitudes held simultaneously

Examples of cognitive dissonance in a Sentence

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.
Elevating someone who reviews food and makes promotional appearances into someone that transcends time is a bit of cognitive dissonance that’s undoubtedly amusing. Callum Booth, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024 They're just stuck in this perpetual cycle of cognitive dissonance. Suzette Hackney, USA TODAY, 10 Dec. 2024 That hint of cognitive dissonance makes the film almost nauseatingly gripping, and disturbing. Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 6 Dec. 2024 These conflicting versions created a puzzling cognitive dissonance. Lane Sainty, USA TODAY, 24 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for cognitive dissonance 

Word History

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cognitive dissonance was in 1957

Dictionary Entries Near cognitive dissonance

Cite this Entry

“Cognitive dissonance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cognitive%20dissonance. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

cognitive dissonance

noun
: psychological conflict resulting from simultaneously held incongruous beliefs and attitudes (as a fondness for smoking and a belief that it is harmful)

More from Merriam-Webster on cognitive dissonance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!