sophistication

noun

so·​phis·​ti·​ca·​tion sə-ˌfi-stə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce sophistication (audio)
1
a
: the use of sophistry : sophistic reasoning
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

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 But dynamic sophistication isn't the be-all and end-all of cars in this segment. Barry Winfield, Car and Driver, 16 Aug. 2023 Culp believes that, for all its sophistication, AI cannot replace living artists. Katherine A. Powers, Washington Post, 16 Aug. 2023 There’s never been a better time to embrace the sophistication of a black room. Anna Fixsen, ELLE Decor, 15 Aug. 2023 Dark neutrals, like rich pewter gray, tone down other colors and increase sophistication. Jessica Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Aug. 2023 Advertisement - Continue Reading Below 4 Le Creuset Vancouver 16-Piece Dinnerware Set Now 20% Off $250 at Le Creuset Bring the sophistication of Le Creuset to the dining table with this 16-piece set, including dinner plates, salad plates, soup bowls and mugs. Ellen McAlpine, Good Housekeeping, 3 Aug. 2023 Instantly adding elegance to any space, a marble fireplace setting showcases the sophistication in the room. Southern Living Editors, Southern Living, 2 Aug. 2023 Born in Pinsk, Belarus and raised in Israel, Lahav has a unique vision and style that combines elegance, glamor, and sophistication. Michael Lee Simpson, Peoplemag, 29 July 2023 Come evening, a layer of sophistication is applied as cocktails take the place of coffee cups. Tom Sietsema, Washington Post, 18 Aug. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'sophistication.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of sophistication was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near sophistication

Cite this Entry

“Sophistication.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sophistication. Accessed 26 Sep. 2023.

Medical Definition

sophistication

noun
so·​phis·​ti·​ca·​tion sə-ˌfis-tə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce sophistication (audio)
: the process or result of making impure or weak : adulteration
sophistication of a drug

More from Merriam-Webster on sophistication

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