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 of sophistication

• 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

At the same time, nonprofits are expected to operate with greater sophistication, accountability and measurable impact that people can see for themselves. — Leslie Motter, Forbes.com, 25 Sep. 2026

The announcement came as Defense Secretary Wes Streeting warned that threats to British space infrastructure were growing in scale, speed, and sophistication. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 25 Sep. 2026

The light-catching shade makes a statement without sacrificing sophistication. — Amanda Le, InStyle, 25 Sep. 2026

Start your child young as far as global adventures and sophistication are concerned by cocooning them in this indulgent, miniature version of the above The Ritz-Carlton robe. — Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 24 Sep. 2026

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