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

• 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

And the broken suit pairing of seersucker blazers with light blue jeans adds urban sophistication. —Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 1 Aug. 2025

By embedding governance into the foundation, organizations build solutions that scale with both sophistication and integrity. —Chris Brown, Forbes.com, 31 July 2025

These tools handle everything, vocals, instruments, structure, with startling sophistication. —Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 26 July 2025

The collar gives off a preppy vibe that adds a touch of sophistication, while the buttons are eye-catching and make layering easy. —Nicol Natale, People.com, 23 July 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