Sceptic

Pronunciation

Origin

From Latin *scepticus, only in plural Sceptici ("the sect of Sceptics"), from Ancient Greek σκεπτικός (skeptikos, "thoughtful, inquiring"), from σκέπτομαι (skeptomai, "I consider"), compare to σκοπέω (skopeō, "I view, examine").

Alternative forms

• skeptic (US)

Full definition of sceptic

Noun

1. Someone who is undecided as to what is true and enquires after facts.
2. Someone who habitually doubts accepted beliefs and claims presented by others, requiring strong evidence before accepting any belief or claim.

Usage notes

Sceptic is more commonly used in the British Commonwealth, while in the US skeptic is used instead.

Related terms

• sceptical
• scepticism