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 river setting added a layer of sophistication to the brand’s ongoing evolution. —Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 10 Oct. 2025

With Kumar’s leadership, small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) are learning how to operate with the same sophistication as large enterprises by reducing costs, improving service levels, and accelerating growth. —Wyles Daniel, USA Today, 10 Oct. 2025

Best black dresses with sleeves A little black dress with long sleeves is fail-proof in the colder months, offering just the right balance of coverage and sophistication. —Kristina Rutkowski, Glamour, 9 Oct. 2025

And Kate Middleton’s plaid dress adds a level of sophistication to business-casual ’fits. —Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 8 Oct. 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