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
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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.
That mission has become progressively more important as China's informational capabilities have expanded in their scope and sophistication. — Ilan Berman, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026 The shoes, exclusively available at Madewell, combine the beautiful craftsmanship for which Minnetonka is known with the warm sophistication that makes Madewell a go-to destination for stylish dressers in the know. — Kelsey Legg, ABC News, 10 Aug. 2026 That’s the kind of sophistication that never goes out of style. — Colleen Sullivan, InStyle, 6 Aug. 2026 The secret, French says, is to never discount sophistication. — Kelsey Mulvey, Vogue, 6 Aug. 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 17 Aug. 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

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