cynic

cyn·ic

noun \ˈsi-nik\

Definition of CYNIC

1

capitalized : an adherent of an ancient Greek school of philosophers who held the view that virtue is the only good and that its essence lies in self-control and independence

2

: a faultfinding captious critic; especially : one who believes that human conduct is motivated wholly by self-interest

— cynic adjective

Examples of CYNIC

1. He's too much of a cynic to see the benefits of marriage.
2. A cynic might think that the governor visited the hospital just to gain votes.
3. Reporters who cover politics often become cynics.

Origin of CYNIC

Middle French or Latin, Middle French cynique, from Latin cynicus, from Greek kynikos, literally, like a dog, from kyn-, kyōn dog — more at hound

First Known Use: 1542

Related to CYNIC

Synonyms: misanthrope, naysayer, pessimist

Related Words: misandrist, misogynist; doubter, negativist, skeptic; belittler, critic, derider, detractor, scoffer; malcontent; defeatist, quitter

Near Antonyms: optimist, Pollyanna, positivist; idealist, sentimentalist

[+]more[-]hide

Rhymes with CYNIC

clinic, Finnic