1580s, "resembling Cynic philosophers," from cynic + -al (1). By late 17c. the meaning had shaded into the general one of "critical, disparaging the motives of others, captious, sneerin [..]

believing the worst of human nature and motives; having a sneering disbelief in e.g. selflessness of others (cynically) with cynicism; in a cynical manner; "Larsen's frost-bla [..]

adj. Exhibiting moral skepticism.

(adj) believing the worst of human nature and motives; having a sneering disbelief in e.g. selflessness of others

Of or relating to the belief that human actions are motivated only or primarily by base desires or selfishness. *(1709-1784) *: I hope it is no very cynical asperity not to confess obligations whe [..]

Of or relating to the Cynics, a sect of Ancient Greek philosophers who believed virtue to be the only good and self-control to be the only means of achieving virtue. Concerned only with one's own [..]