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Definition of ism

ism

/ˈɪz.əm/
is · m
Plural:isms
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ism Lexical Profile

ism Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A distinctive practice, system, philosophy, or political ideology, often used disparagingly to refer to a rigid or dogmatic doctrine.

Example

"The professor warned her students against reducing complex historical movements to simple isms."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for ism

Word Nuance & Usage

Often used in the plural ('isms') with a mildly disparaging or skeptical tone to suggest that a belief system is overly rigid, dogmatic, or trendy.

• Rhymes for ism

• Nearby Words

islander
isle
islet
ism
iso
isolate
isolated

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 17th century as an independent noun from the suffix '-ism', which derives via Latin '-ismus' from Ancient Greek '-ismos', a suffix forming abstract nouns of action, state, or doctrine.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ism. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ism
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