conformist
conformist Lexical Profile
conformist Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A person who uncritically complies with or follows accepted customs, rules, or prevailing social styles.
"Rather than being a strict conformist, she preferred to express her own individuality through her writing."
British Historically, a person who conformed to the usages and doctrines of the established Church of England.
"Following the Act of Uniformity, a strict distinction emerged in English law between a conformist and a dissenter."
• adjective
Characterized by or adhering to conventional behavior, established rules, or prevailing social norms, often uncritically.
"The progressive art school encouraged students to challenge conformist attitudes toward design."
Word Nuance & Usage
In modern usage, 'conformist' frequently carries a mildly pejorative connotation, implying a lack of originality, critical thought, or independent spirit.
• Rhymes for conformist
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in the early 17th century from the verb 'conform' (from Latin 'conformare', meaning 'to fashion or shape') and the suffix '-ist'. Historically, it specifically denoted a person who conformed to the usages of the Church of England, as opposed to a dissenter or nonconformist.