See also: Cynicism

English edit

Etymology edit

From Cynicism, cynic +‎ -ism; compare cynism.

Pronunciation edit

Noun edit

cynicism (countable and uncountable, plural cynicisms)

  1. (uncountable) A distrustful attitude.
  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.

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