Word of the Day

: December 19, 2014

syncretic

adjective sin-KRET-ik

What It Means

: characterized or brought about by a combination of different forms of belief or practice

syncretic in Context

Dr. Portman practices a syncretic form of medicine, borrowing from both Eastern and Western medical traditions.

"Her CV cites disparate accomplishments as a scientist, writer, and artist-and teacher…. Moreover, her career arc represents a syncretic impulse that characterizes her general outlook on life." - Glen Martin, Forbes, November 4, 2014

Did You Know?

Syncretic has its roots in an ancient alliance. It's a descendant of the Greek word synkrētismos, meaning "federation of Cretan cities"-syn- means "together, with," and Krēt- means "Cretan." The adjective first appeared in English in the mid-19th century, and the related noun syncretism debuted over 200 years earlier. Syncretic retains the idea of coalition and appears in such contexts as "syncretic religions," "syncretic societies," and even "syncretic music," all describing things influenced by two or more styles or traditions. The word also has a specific application in linguistics, where it refers to a fusion of inflectional forms.