Hellenism

noun

Hel·​le·​nism ˈhe-lə-ˌni-zəm How to pronounce Hellenism (audio)
1
2
: devotion to or imitation of ancient Greek thought, customs, or styles
3
: Greek civilization especially as modified in the Hellenistic period by influences from southwestern Asia
4
: a body of humanistic and classical ideals associated with ancient Greece and including reason, the pursuit of knowledge and the arts, moderation, civic responsibility, and bodily development

Examples of Hellenism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Their mission is to promote Hellenism, education philanthropy, civic responsibility and family, and individual excellence. Deena Lawley-Dixon, Chicago Tribune, 18 Sep. 2023 The Greek Revolution’ Review: Hellenism and Heroism Looking anew at the 19th-century struggle that set off a wave of nationalist movements. Wsj Books Staff, WSJ, 10 Dec. 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'Hellenism.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1609, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of Hellenism was in 1609

Dictionary Entries Near Hellenism

Cite this Entry

“Hellenism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Hellenism. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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