Cynical
/ˈsɪn.ɪ.kəl/noun
Believing that people are motivated purely by self-interest; distrustful of human sincerity.
Did you know?The ancient Cynics believed that virtue was better revealed in action than in theory, often rejecting societal norms and material possessions for a life of asceticism.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
κύων (kyōn)
“dog; a term used to describe the lifestyle of living freely and without societal constraints.”
4th Century BCE
Greek
Κυνικοί (Kynikoi)
“Followers of Diogenes, who lived in accordance with nature, often exhibiting disdain for societal norms.”
Late Latin
Latin
cynicus
“pertaining to the Cynics, often used to denote a skeptical attitude towards morality.”
Middle English
Middle English
cynical
“having the qualities of the Cynics, generally reflecting a distrust of human motives.”
Modern English
English
cynical
“characterized by a belief that people are motivated by self-interest.”