cynicism
SIHN-ih-sih-zuhm
Cynicism (noun) means a general distrust of people's sincerity, or the belief that self-interest drives most human behaviour. Example: “Years of disappointment had hardened him into deep cynicism.”
noun
1
A general distrust of people's sincerity, or the belief that self-interest drives most human behaviour.
"Years of disappointment had hardened him into deep cynicism."
"The comedian's cynicism about celebrity culture made for sharp material."
How to use cynicism
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA generally distrustful, jaded outlook that assumes the worst about people's motives.
Common pairings
deep cynicism
growing cynicism
political cynicism
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like cynicism.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- cynicisms
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Years of disappointment had hardened him into deep _____.
Etymology
From cynic plus -ism; ultimately from Ancient Greek kunikos, the root of the ancient Cynic philosophical school.
Rhymes for cynicism
See all rhymes for cynicism →Frequently asked questions
What does “cynicism” mean?
The word “cynicism” means a general distrust of people's sincerity, or the belief that self-interest drives most human behaviour. In plain terms, a generally distrustful, jaded outlook that assumes the worst about people's motives.
How do you pronounce “cynicism”?
“Cynicism” is pronounced SIHN-ih-sih-zuhm (/ˈsɪn.ɪˌsɪzəm/ in IPA).
How do you use “cynicism” in a sentence?
Here is “cynicism” used in a sentence: “Years of disappointment had hardened him into deep cynicism.”
What part of speech is “cynicism”?
“Cynicism” is a noun.
Where does the word “cynicism” come from?
The word “cynicism” comes from Ancient Greek. From cynic plus -ism; ultimately from Ancient Greek kunikos, the root of the ancient Cynic philosophical school.
Is “cynicism” a common word?
“Cynicism” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include cynicism:
