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Webster 1913 Edition


Cynicism

Cyn′i-cism

(sĭn′ĭ-sĭz’m)
,
Noun.
The doctrine of the Cynics; the quality of being cynical; the mental state, opinions, or conduct, of a cynic; morose and contemptuous views and opinions.

Definition 2024


Cynicism

Cynicism

See also: cynicism

English

Proper noun

Cynicism

  1. the philosophy of the Greek Cynics

cynicism

cynicism

See also: Cynicism

English

Noun

cynicism (countable and uncountable, plural cynicisms)

  1. (uncountable) a distrustful attitude
    David T Wolf: "Idealism is what precedes experience; cynicism is what follows."
  2. (uncountable) an emotion of jaded negativity, or a general distrust of the integrity or professed motives of other people. Cynicism can manifest itself by frustration, disillusionment and distrust in regard to organizations, authorities and other aspects of society, often due to previous bad experience. Cynics often view others as motivated solely by disguised self-interest.
  3. (countable) a skeptical, scornful or pessimistic comment or act

Translations

See also