skepticism

noun

skep·​ti·​cism ˈskep-tə-ˌsi-zəm How to pronounce skepticism (audio)
1
: an attitude of doubt or a disposition to incredulity either in general or toward a particular object
2
a
: the doctrine that true knowledge or knowledge in a particular area is uncertain
b
: the method of suspended judgment, systematic doubt, or criticism characteristic of skeptics
3
: doubt concerning basic religious principles (such as immortality, providence, and revelation)
Choose the Right Synonym for skepticism

uncertainty, doubt, dubiety, skepticism, suspicion, mistrust mean lack of sureness about someone or something.

uncertainty may range from a falling short of certainty to an almost complete lack of conviction or knowledge especially about an outcome or result.

assumed the role of manager without hesitation or uncertainty

doubt suggests both uncertainty and inability to make a decision.

plagued by doubts as to what to do

dubiety stresses a wavering between conclusions.

felt some dubiety about its practicality

skepticism implies unwillingness to believe without conclusive evidence.

an economic forecast greeted with skepticism

suspicion stresses lack of faith in the truth, reality, fairness, or reliability of something or someone.

regarded the stranger with suspicion

mistrust implies a genuine doubt based upon suspicion.

had a great mistrust of doctors

Examples of skepticism in a Sentence

She regarded the researcher's claims with skepticism. It's good to maintain a healthy skepticism about fad diets.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Trump has also repeatedly undercut Zelenskyy and provided rhetorical support to Putin, expressing skepticism of any criticism directed toward the Russian leader, and seeking to force Ukraine to make territorial concessions without guaranteeing their freedom and sovereignty in the future. Editorial, Boston Herald, 13 June 2025 However, Gac insisted that many of the performer’s lyrics are steeped in skepticism toward political leaders, union bosses, and employers. John Scott Lewinski, The Washington Examiner, 13 June 2025 The relationship between young men and feminism has shifted notably in recent years, with evidence suggesting increasing skepticism and ambivalence among Gen Z males. Suzanne Blake, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 June 2025 Breyer had expressed skepticism at a hearing Thursday over the matter, questioning whether President Trump had operated within his authority. Michael Wilner, Los Angeles Times, 12 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for skepticism

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of skepticism was in 1646

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Cite this Entry

“Skepticism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/skepticism. Accessed 16 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

skepticism

noun
skep·​ti·​cism ˈskep-tə-ˌsiz-əm How to pronounce skepticism (audio)
: an attitude of doubt

More from Merriam-Webster on skepticism

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