liberalism
liberalism Lexical Profile
liberalism Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A political and moral philosophy based on the rights of the individual, liberty, consent of the governed, political equality, and equality before the law.
"Enlightenment thinkers laid the intellectual foundations for modern democratic liberalism."
The quality or state of being open to new ideas, broad-minded, and tolerant of differing views or behaviors; willingness to discard traditional values when warranted.
"Her parents were known for their social liberalism and welcoming attitude toward people from all walks of life."
An economic doctrine that advocates for free enterprise, free trade, private property, and minimal government regulation of the economy.
"Nineteenth-century economic liberalism championed free trade and the removal of protectionist tariffs."
Word Nuance & Usage
In modern American political discourse, 'liberalism' generally refers to social liberalism (supporting a mixed economy, social justice, and civil rights), whereas in Europe, Australia, and classical political philosophy, it often refers to economic liberalism (favoring free markets and limited government intervention).
• Rhymes for liberalism
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the early 19th century from 'liberal' (Ultimately from Latin 'liberalis', meaning 'suitable for a free person', from 'liber', meaning 'free') combined with the ideological suffix '-ism'.