Cynic

/ˈsɪnɪk/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person who believes that people are motivated purely by self-interest rather than acting for honorable or unselfish reasons.

As a lifelong cynic, she found it hard to believe that politicians could genuinely serve the public.

A person who has a negative and distrustful view of human nature.

His cynic remarks about the charity event showed his lack of faith in humanity.

A member of a school of ancient Greek philosophers who believed that virtue was better revealed in action than in theory.

Diogenes, a famous cynic, was known for his extreme ascetic lifestyle and sharp criticism of societal norms.

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

cynical smile

A smile that reflects skepticism or disbelief.

cynic's view

A perspective that assumes the worst in human motives.

skeptic

A person inclined to question or doubt accepted opinions.

misanthrope

A person who dislikes humankind and avoids human society.

A person who tends to be negative or sarcastic.

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

Someone who makes cynical jokes.

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