alienism

[ eyl-yuh-niz-uhm, ey-lee-uh- ]

noun

1. alienage.

alienism

/ ˈeɪlɪə-; ˈeɪljəˌnɪzəm /

noun

1. obsolete.
   the study and treatment of mental illness

Word History and Origins

Origin of alienism¹

An Americanism dating back to 1800–10; alien + -ism

Example Sentences

The law was very gentle in the construction of the disability of alienism.

From Project Gutenberg

In Wales, a great tradition survives; in Ireland, a supreme tradition fades through sunset-hued horizons; in Celtic Scotland, a passionate regret, a despairing love and longing, narrows yearly before a dull and incredibly selfish alienism.

From Project Gutenberg

The terms "drysalter", a dealer in certain chemical products and foods, and "alienism", the study and treatment of mental illness, have also faded from use.

From The Guardian

No charge of alienism could be laid against the head of the Irish Hamiltons, and while every other great landlord had his land troubles, the tenants of the Marquis of Abercorn had realized in a practical manner their indebtedness to their landlord.

From Project Gutenberg

But I know that slowly and unconsciously the atmosphere of the settlement thawed out the asperity of alienism.

From Project Gutenberg