cynicism /ˈsɪn.ɪˌsɪzəm/ noun4 •A distrustful attitude. •An emotion of jaded negativity, or a general distrust of the integrity or professed motives of others, due to belief that people are motivated solely by disguised self-interest. •A scornfully pessimistic comment or act. •A school of thought in the philosophy of Ancient Greece. formscynicisms