agelicism

noun

agel·​i·​cism
ə-ˈje-lə-ˌsi-zəm
plural -s
: the doctrine that holds that society completely determines the thoughts, feelings, and acts of individuals

Word History

Etymology

Greek agelikós "of the herd" (from agélē "herd" + -ikos -ic entry 1) + -ism

First Known Use

circa 1955, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of agelicism was circa 1955

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near agelicism

Cite this Entry

“Agelicism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/agelicism. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!