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

In addition to their technical sophistication, the satellites featured a unique dielectric mirror coating designed to scatter sunlight and reduce their visibility from Earth, a thoughtful innovation aimed at addressing concerns by astronomers about light pollution. —Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 30 Apr. 2025

The fundamental problem lies in the sophistication of our adversaries and the complacency baked into the cybersecurity industry’s mindset. —Denis Mandich, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025

The interior is one of sophistication and fine finishes. —David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 29 Apr. 2025

It’s made from a dark wood and has eye-catching detailing like tapered turned legs and fluting on the drawers to add a touch of sophistication to a living room. —Clara McMahon, People.com, 26 Apr. 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