sceptic
noun
The leading ancient sceptic was Pyrrho, whose followers at the Academy vigorously opposed Stoicism. Modern sceptics have held diverse views: the most extreme have doubted whether any knowledge at all of the external world is possible (see solipsism), while others have questioned the existence of objects beyond our experience of them
adjective
- another term for sceptical.
Origin:
late 16th century (in sense 2 of the noun): from French sceptique, or via Latin from Greek skeptikos, from skepsis 'inquiry, doubt'
Spelling help
Remember that sceptic begins with sc- (the spelling skeptic is American).
Do not confuse septic with sceptic. Septic means 'infected with bacteria' (septic wounds), whereas sceptic means 'a person who questions accepted beliefs or statements' (numerous sceptics poured scorn on his claim).
