Meaning & Definition of word "Skeptic"
Skeptic
/ˈskɛptɪk/
noun:
- 1. A person inclined to question or doubt accepted opinions.
- Example: The skeptic raised concerns about the validity of the study's results.
- 2. A person who maintains a doubting attitude, especially regarding religious or supernatural claims.
- Example: As a skeptic, she finds it hard to accept the claims of paranormal phenomena without solid evidence.
- 3. A member of a philosophical school that denies the possibility of certain knowledge.
- Example: The ancient Greek skeptic philosophers often questioned the certainty of knowledge.
Etymology
●From Greek 'skeptikos' meaning 'thoughtful' or 'to look around'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
skepticism:
The philosophical attitude of doubting the truth of something.
healthy skepticism:
An attitude of doubt towards claims or statements, often to encourage deeper inquiry.
skeptical inquiry:
The process of questioning and examining claims critically.
Related Words
doubt:
A feeling of uncertainty about the truth or reliability of something.
question:
To express doubt about something or to seek information.
cynicism:
An attitude of distrust towards the motives of others.
Slang Meanings of skeptic
Meaning: Doubting Thomas
● Example Sentence: He's such a Doubting Thomas when it comes to conspiracy theories.
Meaning: Naysayer
● Example Sentence: She always plays the naysayer in our discussions about new ideas.