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

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

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Word History

First Known Use

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

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