Methodism

American  

[meth-uh-diz-uhm] / ˈmɛθ əˌdɪz əm /

noun

1. the doctrines, polity, beliefs, and methods of worship of the Methodists.

2. (lowercase) the act or practice of working, proceeding, etc., according to some method or system.

3. (lowercase) an excessive use of or preoccupation with methods, systems, or the like.

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Methodism British  

/ ˈmɛθədɪzəm /

noun

1. the system and practices of the Methodist Church, developed by John Wesley and his followers

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Etymology

Origin of Methodism

First recorded in 1730–40; method + -ism

Example Sentences

Generations of missionary efforts brought Methodism across the world.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 13, 2024

The school is named for Francis Asbury, a circuit-riding preacher who helped Methodism grow from modest beginnings to the largest Christian group in America during the 1800s.

From Washington Post • Feb. 15, 2023

As America expanded so did Arminianism, this time taking the form of Methodism and all the variants that came in its wake.

From New York Times • Jan. 26, 2021

The spirit of Methodism founder John Wesley, who wrote a public health document in 1747, today prompts church staff opening the phone book and calling up members weekly, he said.

From Washington Times • Apr. 21, 2020

The Methodism preached by Reverend Matyolo was of the fire-and-brimstone variety, seasoned with a bit of African animism.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela