Meaning & Definition of Cynic in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: A person who is distrustful of human sincerity or integrity.

  Example Sentence: The cynic scoffed at the idea of altruism.

• Definition: A member of a sect of ancient Greek philosophers who advocated the rejection of social conventions.

  Example Sentence: The cynics of ancient Greece lived in accordance with nature and rejected societal norms.

• Definition: One who shows a lack of faith in human nature.

  Example Sentence: Her cynic views made it hard for her to trust anyone.

Etymology

Origin: Derived from the Greek word 'kynikos', meaning 'dog-like', referring to the behavior of the philosophers of the school of Diogenes.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• cynical smile: A smile that reflects skepticism or disbelief.
• cynic's view: A perspective that assumes the worst in human motives.

Translations

• Spanish: cínico

• French: cynique

• German: Zyniker

• Russian: циник

Related Words

• skeptic: A person inclined to question or doubt accepted opinions.

• misanthrope: A person who dislikes humankind and avoids human society.

Slang Meanings of cynic

• Meaning: A person who tends to be negative or sarcastic.

  Example Sentence: He's such a cynic; he never believes anyone is being genuine.

• Meaning: Someone who makes cynical jokes.

  Example Sentence: Her jokes are always so cynical; it makes me wonder how she really feels.