Definition of CYNIC

cynic

Meanings

Plural: cynics

Noun

  • someone who is critical of the motives of others
  • a member of a group of ancient Greek philosophers who advocated the doctrine that virtue is the only good and that the essence of virtue is self-control
  • A person whose outlook is scornfully negative.
  • A person who believes that all people are motivated by selfishness.

Adj

  • cynical (in all senses)
  • Relating to the Dog Star.

Origin / Etymology

From Middle English cynike, cynicke, from Middle French cynique, from Latin cynicus, from Ancient Greek κυνικός (kunikós), originally derived from the portico in Athens called Κυνόσαργες (Kunósarges), the earliest home of the Cynic school, later reinterpreted as being derived from κύων (kúōn, “dog”), in a contemptuous allusion to the uncouth and aggressive manners adopted by the members of the school.

Synonyms

faultfinder

Scrabble Score: 12

cynic is a valid Scrabble (US) TWL word
cynic is a valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
cynic is a valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 14

cynic is a valid Words With Friends word