skeptic

noun

skep·​tic ˈskep-tik How to pronounce skeptic (audio)
1
: an adherent or advocate of skepticism
2
: a person disposed to skepticism especially regarding religion or religious principles

Examples of skeptic in a Sentence

Skeptics have pointed out flaws in the researchers' methods. You can believe in ghosts if you like, but I'm still a skeptic. He is a skeptic and a cynic.
Recent Examples on the Web And yes, skeptics who want to test the technology by putting obstacles in the way. Rachel Uranga, Los Angeles Times, 13 Mar. 2024 But there are some skeptics who think Nvidia may be overvalued. Sydney Lake, Fortune, 12 Mar. 2024 The premise is classic: A group of psychics and skeptics is invited to the foreboding Hill House to participate in a study of the supernatural. Katie Rife, EW.com, 12 Mar. 2024 Infusing these devices with AI invites all the same concerns skeptics have had about sticking AI into everything else. Boone Ashworth, WIRED, 9 Mar. 2024 But skeptics say that mutual hatred will scuttle that. Robert F. Worth, The Atlantic, 5 Mar. 2024 The testimony is part of a high-stakes effort by House GOP leaders to convince skeptics within their own party to fully back a vote to impeach President Biden. Ryan Lucas, NPR, 28 Feb. 2024 Even skeptics and critics must admit that Liberalism Against Itself is clearly written and argued. Helena Rosenblatt, Foreign Affairs, 20 Feb. 2024 And skeptics of the effort have raised concerns that impeaching Mayorkas could have a ripple effect, politicizing future impeachments. USA TODAY, 14 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'skeptic.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Latin or Greek; Latin scepticus, from Greek skeptikos, from skeptikos thoughtful, from skeptesthai to look, consider — more at spy

First Known Use

1587, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of skeptic was in 1587

Dictionary Entries Near skeptic

Cite this Entry

“Skeptic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/skeptic. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

skeptic

noun
skep·​tic ˈskep-tik How to pronounce skeptic (audio)
: a person slow to believe or ready to question : doubter

More from Merriam-Webster on skeptic

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