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 the average person still supports much of the mainstream biomedical research community, there’s a level of skepticism and cynicism toward science that is perhaps unprecedented in our lifetimes. — Literary Hub, 6 Nov. 2026

Many have warned that the false data would add to the cynicism about the organizer’s commitment to a fair election and weaken voter participation. — Alexander Onukwue, semafor.com, 4 Nov. 2026

But when the lines between sincerity and cynicism are so blurred, does intention even matter? — Andrew Ryce, Pitchfork, 3 Nov. 2026

As the country grapples with division and cynicism, the creators argue that audiences need the work’s message of hope — and that the country belongs to everyone. — Tim Greiving, Los Angeles Times, 3 Nov. 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