"Cynic, n: a blackguard whose faulty vision sees things as they are, not as they ought to be"

This quote by Ambrose Bierce defines a cynic as somebody whose viewpoint is based solely on truth and not on idealism. The word "blackguard" used here suggests an unfavorable connotation or dishonorable perception about such people. A cynic might be viewed as cynical and doing not have hope in humanity, and might often criticize what they believe to be not practical or impractical. Nevertheless, the author recommends that their vision is "defective" as they are not seeing things as they "ought to be," which indicates that a cynic's perspective may not constantly be precise. In such a way, Bierce appears to appreciate the worth of optimism and idealism although he acknowledges the cynic's point of view.