cynical
|cyn/i/cal|
/ˈsɪnɪkəl/
distrustful of sincerity
Etymology
'cynical' originates from the Greek word 'kynikos', which meant 'dog-like' or 'churlish'.
'kynikos' transformed into the Latin word 'cynicus', and eventually became the modern English word 'cynical'.
Initially, it meant 'dog-like' or 'churlish', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'distrustful of human sincerity'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
believing that people are motivated by self-interest; distrustful of human sincerity or integrity.
She had a cynical view of the world.
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Adjective 2
concerned only with one's own interests and typically disregarding accepted or appropriate standards in order to achieve them.
His cynical disregard for the rules was shocking.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35