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

Add an air of sophistication to any parachute pants outfit by wearing a luxurious sleeveless sweater or sweater vest on top. —Jennifer Hussein, InStyle, 20 June 2026

The design through-lines are sophistication and elegance, but if the public spaces telegraph a bit of moody mystery the private ones are refreshingly straightforward; the kind of rooms that bring a sense of ease and feel wonderful to come back to after a day on the town. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 June 2026

Only, a loafer reads more traditionally masculine, and the ballet flats have a bit more intrigue and sophistication to them. —Christian Allaire, Vogue, 19 June 2026

More importantly, this is the latest in a series showing the growing scale and depth of Ukraine’s drone arsenal, and their sophistication in applying it. —David Hambling, Forbes.com, 19 June 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