cynicism

noun

cyn·​i·​cism ˈsi-nə-ˌsi-zəm 

1

Cynicism : 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

Even if some of the social media gripes about 2K27 reflect broader cynicism of today’s world than 2004—Reddit didn’t even exist then—the financial data shows where gaming companies are now inspired to focus their energy. — Dan Bernstein, Sportico.com, 4 Sep. 2026

Cynicism is pervasive, and not everyone has time for or interest in the scenic route. — Ian Bogost, The Atlantic, 4 Sep. 2026

When truth stalls, systems fill with speculation and cynicism. — Melissa Daimler, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2026

Cole’s Tyler acts practically while collapsing into a black hole of cynicism. — Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 19 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

see cynic

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for cynicism

• autism
• fascism
• racism
• sikhism
• sophism
• statism
• sufism
• thomism
• tourism
• tropism
• abolitionism
• aldosteronism

Kids Definition

cynicism

noun

cyn·​i·​cism ˈsin-ə-ˌsiz-əm 

: a cynical attitude or quality

also : an expression of cynical quality