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

The fact that criminals would seek to take advantage of an old man’s lack of sophistication about the workings of the internet galled Tejasvi. —Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 9 Sep. 2025

In 2009, the original Magellano 74 pioneered the crossover between adventure and sophistication in what was a very traditional trawler market. —Tristan Rutherford, Robb Report, 8 Sep. 2025

Olas and Agent are designed with versatility and sophistication to meet the needs of modern women. —Footwear News, 8 Sep. 2025

Complete with eight bedrooms and a whopping 15 bathrooms, the 14,969-square-foot mansion is a brilliant combination of beach chic, sophistication and romance both inside and out. —Tj MacIas, Miami Herald, 5 Sep. 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