skepticism
noun
skep·ti·cism
ˈskep-tə-ˌsi-zəm 
1
: an attitude of doubt or a disposition to incredulity either in general or toward a particular object
2
a
: the doctrine that true knowledge or knowledge in a particular area is uncertain
b
: the method of suspended judgment, systematic doubt, or criticism characteristic of skeptics
3
: doubt concerning basic religious principles (such as immortality, providence, and revelation)
Examples of skepticism in a Sentence
She regarded the researcher's claims with skepticism.
It's good to maintain a healthy skepticism about fad diets.
Recent Examples on the Web
However, optimism has since given way to skepticism, as a series of policy missteps and economic headwinds have made Bessent’s goal seem increasingly unattainable.
—
Dan Irvine, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025
Netanyahu, having played a pivotal role in supporting Trump's 2018 decision to scrap the nuclear deal secured by former President Barack Obama three years earlier, is once again fueling skepticism toward a new agreement with Tehran.
—Tom O'Connor, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 May 2025
Polis’s office had signaled skepticism to the bill throughout the session.
—Seth Klamann, Denver Post, 30 May 2025
As these tools become more powerful and affordable, skepticism in media will grow.
—ArsTechnica, 29 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for skepticism
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.
Dan Irvine, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025
Netanyahu, having played a pivotal role in supporting Trump's 2018 decision to scrap the nuclear deal secured by former President Barack Obama three years earlier, is once again fueling skepticism toward a new agreement with Tehran.
—Tom O'Connor, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 May 2025
Polis’s office had signaled skepticism to the bill throughout the session.
—Seth Klamann, Denver Post, 30 May 2025
As these tools become more powerful and affordable, skepticism in media will grow.
—ArsTechnica, 29 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for skepticism
Cite this Entry
“Skepticism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/skepticism. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
skepticism
noun
skep·ti·cism
ˈskep-tə-ˌsiz-əm
: an attitude of doubt
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share