cynicism

noun

cyn·​i·​cism ˈsi-nə-ˌsi-zəm How to pronounce cynicism (audio)
1
capitalized : 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.
But they must not, in the course of their ordeal, be encouraged to adopt the kind of cynicism, the kind of despair, the kind of iconoclasm that is urged upon them by Mr. Baldwin in his recent works. Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 2 Feb. 2025 For Åhlund, the through-line for B-Reel’s output is a lack of cynicism. Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 29 Jan. 2025 With success so determined by gaming algorithms, posting on TikTok and Instagram Reels and YouTube demands cynicism. Jesse David Fox, Vulture, 24 Jan. 2025 Although met with cynicism by some, two studies by clinical psychologists show that 46 percent of the resolvers still stick to their goals six months into the new year, and 19 percent maintain their pledge for two years. Lieke Ten Brummelhuis, Forbes, 26 Dec. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near cynicism

Cite this Entry

“Cynicism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cynicism. Accessed 7 Feb. 2025.

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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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