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 2025 Beverage Testing Institute’s American Single Malt Whiskey judging showcased the growing depth, diversity, and sophistication of this emerging category. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 16 Aug. 2025

Russia is also demanding limits on Ukraine's weapons arsenals and the sophistication of its military technology. —David Brennan, ABC News, 14 Aug. 2025

What played as rustic craftsmanship in the Pacific Northwest translated as boutique sophistication in New York. —Peter Su, Rolling Stone, 8 Aug. 2025

Venture into Ann Taylor, and the quiet sophistication told a different story entirely. —Essence, 4 Aug. 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