Hellenism

noun

Hel·​le·​nism ˈhe-lə-ˌni-zəm How to pronounce Hellenism (audio)
1
2
: devotion to or imitation of ancient Greek thought, customs, or styles
3
: Greek civilization especially as modified in the Hellenistic period by influences from southwestern Asia
4
: a body of humanistic and classical ideals associated with ancient Greece and including reason, the pursuit of knowledge and the arts, moderation, civic responsibility, and bodily development

Examples of Hellenism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Their mission is to promote Hellenism, education philanthropy, civic responsibility and family, and individual excellence. Deena Lawley-Dixon, Chicago Tribune, 18 Sep. 2023 The Greek Revolution’ Review: Hellenism and Heroism Looking anew at the 19th-century struggle that set off a wave of nationalist movements. Wsj Books Staff, WSJ, 10 Dec. 2021

Word History

First Known Use

1609, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of Hellenism was in 1609

Dictionary Entries Near Hellenism

Cite this Entry

“Hellenism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Hellenism. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

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