diffusionist

noun

dif·​fu·​sion·​ist di-ˈfyü-zhə-nəst How to pronounce diffusionist (audio)
: an anthropologist who emphasizes the role of diffusion in the history of culture rather than independent invention or discovery
diffusionism noun
diffusionist adjective

Examples of diffusionist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Until relatively recently the spread of agriculture in Europe, and to some extent the whole world, was pigeon-holed into two maximalist models: cultural or demographic diffusionist. Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 17 May 2011

Word History

Etymology

diffusion + -ist entry 1, after earlier diffusionist, adjective, and diffusionism (probably after German Diffusionismus)

First Known Use

1920, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of diffusionist was in 1920

Dictionary Entries Near diffusionist

Cite this Entry

“Diffusionist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/diffusionist. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

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