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
The real stars here are John Kander and Fred Ebb, who penned a score that drips with melodic aspiration and lyrical cynicism, and Bob Fosse, whose erotically muscular choreography is the perfect match.
—
Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 11 May 2026
Reasonable minds can disagree, though, and cynicism seems hasty.
—Kansas City Star, 9 May 2026
Widespread cynicism helps authoritarianism thrive.
—The New Yorker, New Yorker, 4 May 2026
Our policies have been defined more by optimism and generosity than by selfishness and cynicism.
—Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 1 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for cynicism
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Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 11 May 2026
Reasonable minds can disagree, though, and cynicism seems hasty.
—Kansas City Star, 9 May 2026
Widespread cynicism helps authoritarianism thrive.
—The New Yorker, New Yorker, 4 May 2026
Our policies have been defined more by optimism and generosity than by selfishness and cynicism.
—Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 1 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for cynicism
Cite this Entry
“Cynicism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cynicism. Accessed 21 May. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
cynicism
noun
cyn·i·cism
ˈsin-ə-ˌsiz-əm
: a cynical attitude or quality
also
: an expression of cynical quality
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