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

Harvey accented the dress with sheer black above-the-elbow gloves, lending another element of sophistication to her ensemble. —Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 24 Nov. 2025

The fools of twenty-first-century Western imperialism possessed little of the historical literacy, let alone the moral sophistication, of Arendt, Weil, and Camus. —Victor J. Blue, Harpers Magazine, 23 Nov. 2025

The sophistication of these transactions reflects a growing recognition that sports carries unique risks. —Joseph Glatt, Sportico.com, 21 Nov. 2025

Dream Pairs Motorcycle Ankle Boots, $24 with Prime Torn between Swift’s edgy style and Lawrence’s sleek sophistication? —Averi Baudler, PEOPLE, 21 Nov. 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