traditionalism

[ truh-dish-uh-nl-iz-uhm ]

noun

1. adherence to tradition as authority, especially in matters of religion.
2. a system of philosophy according to which all knowledge of religious truth is derived from divine revelation and received by traditional instruction.

traditionalism

/ trəˈdɪʃənəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. the doctrine that all knowledge originates in divine revelation and is perpetuated by tradition
2. adherence to tradition, esp in religion

Derived Forms

• traˈditionalist, nounadjective
• traˌditionalˈistic, adjective

Other Words From

• tra·dition·al·ist noun adjective
• tra·dition·al·istic adjective
• anti·tra·dition·al·ist noun adjective
• nontra·dition·al·ist noun adjective
• nontra·dition·al·istic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of traditionalism¹

First recorded in 1855–60; traditional + -ism

Example Sentences

He was also striving to break away from the box of traditionalism and open up the floor to more unique expressions, and I didn’t know that, of course, as a kid.

From Los Angeles Times

The country star talks about the traditionalism of her latest album, ‘Hummingbird,’ and the interaction with a heckler that spawned a viral video.

From Los Angeles Times

The novel also explores the clash between traditionalism and so-called modernity, a key Achebean concern.

From New York Times

"It appears the Pope perceives Burke as fostering a cult of personality, centred around traditionalism or regressive ideals. This action seems aimed at limiting Burke's influence by severing his ties to Rome."

From BBC

While she still plans to shirk the traditionalism of a wedding, she said she wants to get married “sooner rather than later.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• accuracy
• austerity
• difficulty
• firmness
• hardship
• harshness
• ordeal
• precision
• rigidity
• tenacity
• tribulation
• vicissitude