cynical
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Sense 1
Of or relating to the belief that human actions are motivated only or primarily by base desires or selfishness.
Adjective
Examples
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Skeptical of the integrity, sincerity, or motives of others.
Adjective
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
Of or relating to the Cynics, a sect of Ancient Greek philosophers who believed virtue to be the only good and self-control to be the only means of achieving virtue.
Adjective
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “cynical” mean?
Of or relating to the belief that human actions are motivated only or primarily by base desires or selfishness.
Is “cynical” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.