noun

skeptic

SKEHP-tihk

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Skeptic (noun) means someone who habitually questions claims or beliefs that most people accept without proof. Example: “As a skeptic, she wanted to see the data before believing the study.”

noun

Someone who habitually questions claims or beliefs that most people accept without proof.

"As a skeptic, she wanted to see the data before believing the study."

"He remained a skeptic about the new diet fad."

How to use skeptic

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSomeone who doubts and demands evidence rather than taking things on faith.

Common mistake

A skeptic questions and demands evidence; a cynic assumes the worst about people's motives — the words overlap but aren't identical.

UK vs US

Spelled "sceptic" in British English, "skeptic" in American English.

Easily confused with

cynic →

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Plural: skeptics
Comparative: more skeptic
Superlative: most skeptic

Test yourself on “skeptic” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

As a _____, she wanted to see the data before believing the study.

Etymology

From Greek "skeptikos," meaning "thoughtful" or "inquiring," from "skeptesthai," "to consider carefully."

Origin: Greek

Synonyms

View more →

doubter sceptic

Antonyms

believer

Related words

Christian believer doubter sceptic questioner devil's advocate theist adherent

Rhymes for skeptic

septic sceptic epileptic antiseptic

See all rhymes for skeptic →

Frequently asked questions

What does “skeptic” mean?

The word “skeptic” means someone who habitually questions claims or beliefs that most people accept without proof. In plain terms, someone who doubts and demands evidence rather than taking things on faith.

How do you pronounce “skeptic”?

“Skeptic” is pronounced SKEHP-tihk (/ˈskɛp.tɪk/ in IPA).

How do you use “skeptic” in a sentence?

Here is “skeptic” used in a sentence: “As a skeptic, she wanted to see the data before believing the study.”

What part of speech is “skeptic”?

“Skeptic” is a noun.

Where does the word “skeptic” come from?

The word “skeptic” comes from Greek. From Greek "skeptikos," meaning "thoughtful" or "inquiring," from "skeptesthai," "to consider carefully.".

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Christian believer doubter sceptic questioner devil's advocate theist adherent