traditionalism

noun

tra·​di·​tion·​al·​ism trə-ˈdi-sh(ə-)nə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce traditionalism (audio)
Synonyms of traditionalismnext
1
: adherence to the doctrines or practices of a tradition
2
: the beliefs of those opposed to modernism, liberalism, progressivism, or radicalism
traditionalist
trə-ˈdi-sh(ə-)nə-list How to pronounce traditionalism (audio)
noun
plural traditionalists
traditionalist adjective
traditionalistic
trə-ˌdi-sh(ə-)nə-ˈli-stik How to pronounce traditionalism (audio)
adjective

Synonyms of traditionalism

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Examples of traditionalism in a Sentence

a staunch supporter of grammatical traditionalism, my English teacher didn't care what the experts in linguistics said
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Patterns, textures, and a rejection of traditionalism have come alive this spring. — Tiana Randall, Forbes.com, 22 May 2026 Some Gen Zers are ready to embrace domestic traditionalism. — Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 21 Oct. 2025 It’s rooted in traditionalism and an us-versus-them mindset, in which people who look like me, and even certain Cardinals players, wonder if we’d be considered them. — Candace Buckner, New York Times, 2 June 2026 Ash never endorsed the Equal Rights Amendment, and her appeals to sisterhood were carefully leavened with traditionalism. — Dan Piepenbring, Harpers Magazine, 24 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for traditionalism

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of traditionalism was in 1840

Rhymes for traditionalism

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Browse Nearby Words

traditional
traditionalism
traditionalist
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Cite this Entry

“Traditionalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/traditionalism. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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