Word of the Day

: October 14, 2006

syncretic

adjective sin-KRET-ik

What It Means

: characterized or brought about by the combination of different forms of belief or practice

syncretic in Context

Dr. Portman practices a syncretic form of medicine, borrowing from both Eastern and Western medical traditions.

Did You Know?

"Syncretic" has its roots in an ancient alliance. It's a descendant of the Greek word "synkrētismos," meaning "federation of Cretan cities"-"syn-" means "together, with," and "Krēt-" means "Cretan." The adjective first appeared in English in the mid-19th century, and the related noun "syncretism" debuted over 200 years earlier. "Syncretic" retains the idea of coalition and appears in such contexts as "syncretic religions," "syncretic societies," and even "syncretic music," all describing things influenced by two or more styles or traditions. The word also has a specific application in linguistics, where it refers to a fusion of grammatical forms.