societal

adjective

so·​ci·​e·​tal sə-ˈsī-ə-tᵊl How to pronounce societal (audio)
: of or relating to society : social
societal forces
societally adverb

Examples of societal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Meanwhile, her spouse may wrestle with questions of self-worth or identity, particularly if societal norms have long linked masculinity with financial provision. Meredith Moore, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2025 The exhibition, which marks Adams’ debut with the gallery, explores resilience, freedom, and the everyday realities of Black womanhood, turning the canvas into a space for self-discovery and resistance against societal constraints. Okla Jones, Essence, 20 Feb. 2025 Yet, missing autistic women may also come down to societal norms and expectations, Maura Sullivan, CEO of The Arc of Massachusetts, a group that works to enhance the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism, tells SELF. Cassie Shortsleeve, SELF, 19 Feb. 2025 This not only brings clarity and pivotal changes that could manifest in the next six months or so, but also an opportunity to liberate yourself from outdated ambitions in your professional life, or perhaps even societal expectations that aren’t relevant to your success. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 18 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for societal

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of societal was in 1890

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Cite this Entry

“Societal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/societal. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

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