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
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.
Some skeptics raised concerns that offering users cryptocurrency in exchange for using the technology could encourage them to overlook potential privacy risks. Clare Duffy, CNN Money, 21 Apr. 2025 Still, for skeptics like me who doubt whether the Gravity can serve as a true camping or adventure vehicle, take note. Michael Teo Van Runkle, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025 Online skeptics questioned everything from the purpose of celebrity space travel to the optics of the high-profile mission. Melissa Noel, Essence, 15 Apr. 2025 Maybe seed-oil skeptics will want to follow RFK Jr.’s lead and sauté their food in beef tallow. Rachel Sugar, The Atlantic, 11 Apr. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Skeptic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/skeptic. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

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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