cynical

Meaning

  1. Of or relating to the belief that human actions are motivated only or primarily by base desires or selfishness.
  2. Skeptical of the integrity, sincerity, or motives of others.
  3. Bitterly or jadedly distrustful or contemptuous; mocking.
  4. Showing contempt for accepted moral standards by one's actions.
  5. Like the actions of a snarling dog, especially in reference to facial nerve paralysis.

Frequency

C2
Pronounced as (IPA)
/ˈsɪnɪkəl/
Etymology

Originated 1580–90 from cynic + -al.

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