petalism

noun

pet·​al·​ism
-lˌizəm
plural -s
: an ancient Syracusan method of banishing for five years a citizen suspected of having dangerous influence or ambition compare ostracism

Word History

Etymology

Greek petalismos banishment by voting with olive leaves, from petalon leaf + -ismos -ism

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Dictionary Entries Near petalism

Cite this Entry

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

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