The English word "cynic" refers to a person who distrusts the motives of others and tends to be motivated by self-interest. Many view their attitude as negative rather than positive.

In ancient times, a "cynic" was a type of Greek philosophy, founded by Antisthenes, and marked by disdain for pleasure and worldly ease, etc. It was widespread in the 3rd century BC and was revived in the 1st century AD, about the time Christianity was moving into Greece.

Since many of their beliefs fit in with Christianity, some had trouble separating between Christian and cynic beliefs. These cynic beliefs of self-sufficiency, asceticism, isolation, work, pain, etc., later influenced monasteries and monks. Some beliefs, such as a disdain for cultural and political norms went against the teachings of Christ.