sophistication

noun

so·​phis·​ti·​ca·​tion sə-ˌfi-stə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce sophistication (audio)
1
a
: the use of sophistry : sophistic reasoning
2
: the process or result of becoming cultured, knowledgeable, or disillusioned
especially : cultivation, urbanity
3
: the process or result of becoming more complex, developed, or subtle

Examples of sophistication in a Sentence

the engine's sophistication requires that all repairs be done by an experienced mechanic
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.
China has progressively increased the sophistication of these sorties as well as their proximity to Taiwanese territory. David Sacks, Foreign Affairs, 8 Nov. 2024 She’s drawn to the sophistication of London’s Connaught Bar but also takes inspiration from Analogue in Singapore, Lady Bee in Lima, and Himkok in Oslo, for their trailblazing creativity and sustainability. Jason O'Bryan, Robb Report, 2 Nov. 2024 One of my favorite parts of Oblivion is the French band M83’s atmospheric, electronic score, which combines pulsating beats, ambient textures and soaring melodies that echo both the technological sophistication of Jack’s world and the emotional weight of his discoveries. Travis Bean, Forbes, 2 Nov. 2024 Here’s something that should come as no surprise: Martha Stewart definitely has some sophistication up her sleeve — her puff sleeves, to be exact. Jamie Allison Sanders, People.com, 23 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sophistication 

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of sophistication was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near sophistication

Cite this Entry

“Sophistication.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sophistication. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

sophistication

noun
so·​phis·​ti·​ca·​tion sə-ˌfis-tə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce sophistication (audio)
: the process or result of making impure or weak : adulteration
sophistication of a drug

More from Merriam-Webster on sophistication

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