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jaundiced

/ˈd͡ʒɔːndɪst/

This word has two very different meanings: one is a medical term, and the other describes a person's attitude. When used to describe an attitude, it is most commonly seen in the phrase "a jaundiced eye." This means the person is skeptical or cynical because they have been hurt or cheated in the past. In a medical context, it is a literal description of skin color and is used as a standard clinical adjective.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon; Victoria is in a high-stakes board meeting while Mr. Sterling is at his private yoga retreat.
Mr. Sterling

The staff's vibe is off. They've become jaundiced toward my new 'Zen-Desk' initiative.

Mr. Sterling
Victoria
Victoria

That's because you cut their bonuses to pay for the incense, Sterling. Get a grip.

💡
Mr. Sterling uses 'jaundiced' in its figurative sense to describe the cynical and resentful attitude of his employees. Victoria responds with the phrasal verb 'get a grip', telling him to regain his composure or face reality, highlighting their dynamic where she is the pragmatic anchor to his eccentricity.

Meanings

adjective

Affected by jaundice; having a yellowish discoloration of the skin, membranes, and sclerae.

"The patient appeared jaundiced due to severe liver failure."

adjective

Feeling or showing jealousy, resentment, or cynicism, often as a result of past negative experiences.

"After years of corporate betrayal, he cast a jaundiced eye on the company's new promises of employee wellness."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error