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

Little details, like white airbrush detailing on the edges of each tartan French tip, add a touch of sophistication. — Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 22 Aug. 2026

Today, Tanqueray remains one of the world’s most iconic gin brands, celebrated for its bold character, timeless sophistication, and unmistakably balanced botanicals. — Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026

The most successful deployments are rarely defined by the sophistication of the underlying models alone. — George Ninikas, Footwear News, 20 Aug. 2026

There’s also a lot more mechanical sophistication under the skin to keep all that power under control. — New Atlas, 19 Aug. 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