skeptic

noun

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

Synonyms of skeptic

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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.
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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.
That's one reason college rankings have always attracted skeptics. — Jason St. Angelo, USA Today, 1 Sep. 2026 Kessel said the project is a proof of concept for yet another tool in shark conservation, especially as there are still skeptics in the field. — Adriana Pérez, Chicago Tribune, 31 Aug. 2026 Ozon is the next economic pressure point Russia's economy has defied the skeptics. — Sam Meredith, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2026 The extensive menu of services and activities, detailed in a hefty quarterly booklet, focuses on New Age practices and is delivered in a stylish camp-for-adults package that could make even skeptics curious. — Jessica Ritz, Travel + Leisure, 30 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for skeptic

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

Rhymes for skeptic

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Browse Nearby Words

skepsis
skeptic
skeptical
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Cite this Entry

“Skeptic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/skeptic. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

skeptic

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