Adlerian

adjective

Ad·​le·​ri·​an äd-ˈlir-ē-ən How to pronounce Adlerian (audio)
ad-
: of, relating to, or being a theory and technique of psychotherapy emphasizing the importance of feelings of inferiority, a will to power, and overcompensation in neurotic processes

Word History

Etymology

Alfred adler + -ian entry 2

First Known Use

1912, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Adlerian was in 1912

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Cite this Entry

“Adlerian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Adlerian. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

Adlerian

adjective
Ad·​le·​ri·​an ad-ˈlir-ē-ən How to pronounce Adlerian (audio) äd- How to pronounce Adlerian (audio)
: of, relating to, or being a theory and technique of psychotherapy emphasizing the importance of feelings of inferiority, a will to power, and overcompensation in neurotic processes
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