sophistication

noun

so·​phis·​ti·​ca·​tion sə-ˌfi-stə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce sophistication (audio)
Synonyms of sophisticationnext
1
a
: the use of sophistry : sophistic reasoning
b
: sophism, quibble
2
: the process or result of becoming cultured, knowledgeable, or disillusioned
especially : cultivation, urbanity
3
: the process or result of becoming more complex, developed, or subtle

Synonyms of sophistication

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Examples of sophistication in a Sentence

the engine's sophistication requires that all repairs be done by an experienced mechanic
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.
Key elements across these looks are healthy, glossy hair, soft volume, and classic styling details that evoke heritage, confidence, and understated sophistication. — Christina Perrier, InStyle, 2 July 2026 Colocousis said people who think scam victims like him are gullible idiots don’t understand the sophistication of criminal organizations behind online fraud. — ABC News, 30 June 2026 Roughly 95 percent of enterprise AI usage still runs on the costliest frontier models, even for work that doesn’t demand that sophistication. — Jemma Green, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 The sophistication of the bomb used indicates that more than one perpetrator was involved, prosecutors said, adding that two men were arrested in Monaco before being released due to lack of evidence. — Issy Ronald, CNN Money, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for sophistication

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of sophistication was in the 15th century

Rhymes for sophistication

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Browse Nearby Words

sophisticated
sophistication
sophisticative
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Cite this Entry

“Sophistication.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sophistication. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

sophistication

noun
so·​phis·​ti·​ca·​tion sə-ˌfis-tə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce sophistication (audio)
: the process or result of making impure or weak : adulteration
sophistication of a drug

More from Merriam-Webster on sophistication

Nglish: Translation of sophistication for Spanish Speakers

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