Cynic - Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

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SKIP TO CONTENT cynic /ˈsɪnɪk/ /ˈsɪnɪk/ IPA guide

Other forms: cynics

A cynic is someone who believes that humans are selfish and that they only do something if it will benefit themselves. Cynics criticize acts of kindness and will probably tease you if you help an old lady cross the street.

Maybe you know a cynic or two. They like to criticize people and situations, especially if they think there’s a deeper motivation behind the more obvious one. Let’s say a friend borrows your car, and then he shows up later covered in grease and offers you a lollipop. If you’re a cynic, you’d suspect that your friend crashed your car and is trying to distract you with the delicious and sweet lollipop. And you might be right.

Definitions of cynic

noun someone who is critical of the motives of others synonyms: faultfinder see moresee less types: show 4 types... hide 4 types... depreciator, detractor, disparager, knocker one who disparages or belittles the worth of something backbiter, defamer, libeler, maligner, slanderer, traducer, vilifier one who attacks the reputation of another by slander or libel hatemonger one who arouses hatred for others muckraker, mudslinger one who spreads real or alleged scandal about another (usually for political advantage) type of: disagreeable person, unpleasant person a person who is not pleasant or agreeable

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