Pronunciation: [sˈɪnɪk] (IPA) 
The word "cynic" is spelled with a "c-y" at the beginning and an "i-c" at the end. The "c" is pronounced like an "s" sound, and the "y" is pronounced like an "i" sound. The "i" in the middle is pronounced like a short "i" sound, and the "c" at the end is pronounced like a "k" sound. The IPA phonetic transcription for "cynic" is /ˈsɪnɪk/. It is easy to remember the spelling of this word once the phonetic transcription is mastered.
A cynic is commonly defined as an individual who holds a skeptical and pessimistic view towards the motives, sincerity, and integrity of others. It is a term often associated with a general distrust in the goodness or selflessness of human nature, leading the cynic to adopt a cynical outlook on life. Cynics are typically characterized by their belief that people are primarily motivated by self-interest, often dismissing acts of kindness or altruism as being driven by ulterior motives or personal gain.
The mindset of a cynic is rooted in skepticism and a tendency to question the sincerity or authenticity of moral principles, social norms, and societal institutions. Cynics often display a critical and mocking attitude towards idealistic or optimistic beliefs, viewing them as naïve or unrealistic.
Additionally, in philosophical terms, cynicism refers to a Greek school of thought that emerged in ancient Greece. The ancient cynics were known for their rejection of conventional societal values and norms, opting instead for a simplistic and ascetic lifestyle that emphasized self-sufficiency and the pursuit of virtue.
Overall, while cynicism may vary in its intensity and manifestations, it generally encompasses a negative and skeptical viewpoint towards human motivations and actions, often dismissing them as driven by selfishness or deceit.
Dog-like, noting a spasm of the muscles of the face, cynic spasm, causing a grin like the snarl of a dog.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• A surly or snarling man; a misanthrope; one of the cynics.
• Snarling; having the qualities of a surly dog.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "cynic" traces its origins back to ancient Greece. It is derived from the Greek word "kynikos", which means "dog-like". This term was used to describe the philosophical school of Cynicism founded by Antisthenes, a disciple of Socrates, in the 4th century BCE. The Cynics earned their name due to their unconventional behavior and their philosophy of living a simple, self-sufficient life, similar to that of dogs who are not bound by societal conventions. Over time, "cynic" evolved to refer to someone who displays a skeptical or pessimistic attitude towards human nature and motivations.
