skeptic

noun

skep·​tic ˈskep-tik 

1

: an adherent or advocate of skepticism

2

: a person disposed to skepticism especially regarding religion or religious principles

Synonyms of skeptic

• questioner

Examples of skeptic in a Sentence

Skeptics have pointed out flaws in the researchers' methods.

You can believe in ghosts if you like, but I'm still a skeptic.

He is a skeptic and a cynic.

Recent Examples on the Web

The company is reportedly working on smart glasses and foldable phones, but some skeptics wonder whether Apple has lost its innovative edge. —Queenie Wong, Los Angeles Times, 22 Apr. 2026

The debate is split cleanly between thrill-seekers who see a bucket-list opportunity and skeptics who see a setup for a nature documentary gone wrong. —Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 20 Apr. 2026

The changes were designed to win over skeptics of the surveillance program who have demanded greater oversight to protect Americans’ privacy. —ABC News, 17 Apr. 2026

Associations for California police departments and sheriff offices have been consistent skeptics of legislation that may be aimed at ICE but winds up putting restrictions on state and local officers. —Andrew Graham april 15, Sacbee.com, 15 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin or Greek; Latin scepticus, from Greek skeptikos, from skeptikos thoughtful, from skeptesthai to look, consider — more at spy

First Known Use

1587, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for skeptic

• peptic
• sceptic
• septic
• antiepileptic
• antiseptic
• epileptic
• neuroleptic
• aseptic
• dyspeptic
• organoleptic

Kids Definition

skeptic

noun

skep·​tic ˈskep-tik 

: a person slow to believe or ready to question : doubter