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cynisme

cynicism

noun see-NEEZ-muh Rare
Mind & Emotions Attitudes

Origin: From Greek kynikismos, from the Cynic school of philosophy.

Usage Note

Cynisme in modern French refers to a contemptuous disbelief in human sincerity or goodness, often expressed through biting remarks. The original philosophical sense (radical self-sufficiency, rejecting social conventions) survives in academic contexts. The adjective is cynique, and a person can be called un cynique.

Examples

"Son cynisme choque ses collègues."

Natural Translation

His cynicism shocks his colleagues.

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