societal

[ suh-sahy-i-tl ]

adjective

1. noting or pertaining to large social groups, or to their activities, customs, etc.

societal

/ səˈsaɪətəl /

adjective

1. of or relating to society, esp human society or social relations

Derived Forms

• soˈcietally, adverb

Other Words From

• so·cie·tal·ly adverb
• anti·so·cie·tal adjective
• anti·so·cie·tal·ly adverb
• inter·so·cie·tal adjective
• nonso·cie·tal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of societal¹

First recorded in 1895–1900; societ(y) + -al ¹

Example Sentences

"By working with, rather than against, how our brains naturally form habits, we can create strategies that make healthier choices more automatic at both individual and societal levels."

From Science Daily

A further societal benefit will be a refined map of earthquake-prone faults.

From Science Magazine

Ultimately, the conflict between societal expectations and Danson’s persona only added to the subversion.

From Los Angeles Times

On Chinese social media platforms, many expressed shock at his actions and asked if it was a symptom of deeper societal problems.

From BBC

The 2021 movie explores societal problems such as racism and police brutality.

From Los Angeles Times