societal

adjective

so·​ci·​e·​tal sə-ˈsī-ə-tᵊl How to pronounce societal (audio)
: of or relating to society : social
societal forces
societally adverb

Examples of societal in a Sentence

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.
Examine how societal expectations impact your self-expression during the Capricorn full moon. Usa Today, USA Today, 29 June 2026 Historians note that anti-immigration fervor tends to peak during eras marked by widespread feelings of economic uncertainty, political turmoil and societal change. Angie Leventis Lourgos, Chicago Tribune, 28 June 2026 Amid warnings that climate change means scorching temperatures are set to become the norm, some investors are rethinking how to prepare their portfolios for the societal changes anticipated alongside a future of sweltering summers. Chloe Taylor, CNBC, 27 June 2026 Free expression of thought is the conduit by which all American citizens are able to discuss the quality of candidates running for offices at all levels of government, as well as societal events shaping our future. Letters To The Editor, Hartford Courant, 27 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for societal

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of societal was in 1890

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Cite this Entry

“Societal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/societal. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.

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