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
• complicacy
• complicatedness
• complication
• elaborateness
• intricacy
• intricateness
• involution
• knottiness

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

Layer a white cotton T-shirt underneath for a more comfortable styling choice, and a belt with silver hardware cinches the waist for an extra dose of sophistication. —Abby Morgan Lebet, Glamour, 23 May 2025

Tory Burch: on sale for $118.80 Original price: $198 These Tory Burch frames feature an irregular, chunky shape that adds a touch of sophistication to any look. —Nora Colomer May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 22 May 2025

Balancing the softness, an oversized high-neck top offers a refreshing, modern edge, while a metallic bouclé jacket channels the timeless sophistication of the quintessential Valli woman — the kind who lunches in couture and lives for a touch of glamour. —Lauren Alexis Fisher, Footwear News, 22 May 2025

Together, these whiskeys showcase the remarkable breadth and sophistication of Irish pot still whiskeys. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 20 May 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