cynical
UK: ˈsɪnɪkəl | US: ˈsɪnɪkəl
adj. distrustful of human sincerity or integrity
adj. contemptuously mocking or sneering
adj. (philosophy) relating to the Cynics, an ancient Greek school of thought
The word "cynical" derives from the Greek "kynikos" (κυνικός), meaning "dog-like," referring to the Cynic philosophers who lived ascetically and rejected social conventions, much like stray dogs. The term evolved to describe a distrustful or mocking attitude, reflecting the Cynics' scorn for societal norms. The suffix "-al" standardizes it as an adjective in English.
His cynical remarks about charity made everyone uncomfortable.
She gave a cynical laugh when asked if politicians keep their promises.
The article took a cynical view of corporate social responsibility.
His cynical outlook stemmed from years of betrayal.
The play’s cynical protagonist sees greed behind every human action.