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a journal. in letters.

Main Entry: cyn·i·cal
Pronunciation: 'si-ni-k&l
Function: adjective
1 : CAPTIOUS, PEEVISH
2 : having or showing the attitude or temper of a cynic : as a : contemptuously distrustful of human nature and motives (those cynical men who say that democracy cannot be honest and efficient -- F. D. Roosevelt> b : based on or reflecting a belief that human conduct is motivated primarily by self-interest <a cynical ploy to cheat customers) - cyn·i·cal·ly /-k(&-)lE/ adverb synonyms CYNICAL, MISANTHROPIC, PESSIMISTIC mean deeply distrustful. CYNICAL implies having a sneering disbelief in sincerity or integrity (cynical about politicians' motives). MISANTHROPIC suggests a rooted distrust and dislike of human beings and their society (a solitary and misanthropic artist). PESSIMISTIC implies having a gloomy, distrustful view of life (pessimistic about the future).