sophistication

noun

so·​phis·​ti·​ca·​tion sə-ˌfi-stə-ˈkā-shən 

1

a

: the use of sophistry : sophistic reasoning

b

: sophism, quibble

2

: the process or result of becoming cultured, knowledgeable, or disillusioned

especially : cultivation, urbanity

3

: the process or result of becoming more complex, developed, or subtle

Synonyms of sophistication

• complexity
• complexness

Examples of sophistication in a Sentence

the engine's sophistication requires that all repairs be done by an experienced mechanic

Recent Examples on the Web

Pull-On Tencel Chambray Pants These pull-on trousers offer the sophistication of jeans with the comfort and sweatpants. —Michelle Baricevic, Travel + Leisure, 1 Dec. 2025

Oscar de la Renta The Ivy This top-handle Oscar de la Renta handbag is a true investment piece that screams sophistication. —Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 29 Nov. 2025

There is a level of sophistication that has grown throughout the band’s career. —Charlie Vargas, Oc Register, 26 Nov. 2025

Their national grids stand at varying levels of sophistication. —Yew-Poh Mak, Fortune, 26 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for sophistication

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration

Medical Definition

sophistication

noun

so·​phis·​ti·​ca·​tion sə-ˌfis-tə-ˈkā-shən 

: the process or result of making impure or weak : adulteration

sophistication of a drug