world soul

noun

1. the animating principle or the moving force of the universe; world spirit.

Word History and Origins

Origin of world soul¹

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

Introduced was a careful sentence to bring della Porta’s discussion of the soul in line with Christian teaching, and all references to the world soul, the anima mundi, were now carefully turned into quotations.

From Literature

Sound: “Greyhound”; “Mank”; “News of the World”; “Soul”; “Sound of Metal.”

From Washington Times

Harper’s background was French, English, Irish, Scottish and Welsh, but Rhoda was at least implicitly Jewish — and with her colorful scarves and gypsy earrings, her dark hair and New York accent, communicated old world soul.

From Los Angeles Times

Its plot is complexity itself, but its "kids save the world" soul is simple and earnest as opposed to earth shattering.

From Los Angeles Times

Jazz in the Garden The band Zili performs world soul, a blend of Haitian, Brazilian and West African rhythms. 5-8:30 p.m.

From Washington Post