Langimage
English

skeptical

|skep-ti-cal|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈskɛp.tɪ.kəl/

🇬🇧

/ˈskep.tɪ.kəl/

doubtful questioning

Etymology
Etymology Information

'skeptical' originates from the Greek word 'skeptikos,' where 'skeptikos' meant 'inquiring or reflective.'

Historical Evolution

'skeptikos' transformed into the Latin word 'scepticus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'skeptical' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'inquiring or reflective,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'having or expressing doubt.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

having or expressing doubt or questioning the validity or authenticity of something.

She was skeptical about the effectiveness of the new drug.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35