What is the Latin word for cynic, cynical?

The usual Latin words for “cynic, cynical” are cynicus, sevērus, rigidus; also asper, mordāx, satyricus. The right choice depends on the sense; see the distinctions below.

English → Latin

“cynic, cynical” in Latin

cynicusCynic sevērussevere, serious, strict, stern, stringent, austere, harsh, grave (in demeanor)rigidusstiff, rigid, hard, inflexible; stern, strict, severe, hard, inflexible asperrough, uneven, coarse; unrefined, rude; sharp, newly minted mordāxbiting; snappish; tart; cutting; caustic satyricussatyric, satyrical

Riddle & Arnold A Copious and Critical English–Latin Lexicon, 1864

cynic, cynical adj.

cynicus (e.g., sect, gens): severus: rigidus: asper: mordax (biting): satyricus (satiric): a teacher of the cynic philosophy, cynicae institutionis doctor.

Quick answer

What is the Latin word for cynic, cynical?: The usual Latin words for “cynic, cynical” are cynicus, sevērus, rigidus; also asper, mordāx, satyricus. The right choice depends on the sense; see the distinctions below.

Entry from J. E. Riddle & T. K. Arnold, A Copious and Critical English–Latin Lexicon (rev. C. Anthon, New York: Harper, 1864), digitised by Fergus J. P. Walsh, CC BY-SA 4.0; Latin markup adapted by latindictionary.co.