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English

skepticism

|skep-ti-cism|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈskɛp.tɪˌsɪz.əm/

🇬🇧

/ˈskep.tɪ.sɪ.zəm/

doubt or questioning

Etymology
Etymology Information

'skepticism' originates from the Greek word 'skeptikos,' where 'skeptikos' meant 'inquirer' or 'doubter.'

Historical Evolution

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

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'inquiry or doubt,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'doubt as to the truth of something.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a skeptical attitude; doubt as to the truth of something.

Her skepticism about the new policy was evident.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

the theory that certain knowledge is impossible.

Philosophical skepticism questions the possibility of certainty in knowledge.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39