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

Music balances a cynicism about the state of the world with a never-ending quest to find meaning in the wreckage. — Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 24 July 2026

Some of them have become much more interested in politics in the world around them and others feel a kind of growing cynicism or kind of skepticism about the institutions around them. — Dana Taylor, USA Today, 24 July 2026

Their cynicism is still there, but it’s carried by brighter melodies and a willingness to let the music speak as loudly as the message. — Sophie Miller, Rolling Stone, 19 July 2026

But key voters in Pennsylvania have mixed views on whether this is a big deal or not, indicating a level of cynicism about many in the political class. — Ashley Lopez, NPR, 16 July 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