Orphism

noun

Or·​phism ˈȯr-ˌfi-zəm How to pronounce Orphism (audio)
: a mystic Greek religion offering initiates purification of the soul from innate evil and release from the cycle of reincarnation

Word History

Etymology

Orpheus, its reputed founder

First Known Use

1880, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Orphism was in 1880

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Cite this Entry

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

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