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.
The societal implications are what have kept me hooked on soccer for some 35 years. Leander Schaerlaeckens june 8, Literary Hub, 8 June 2026 The professor likened these possible societal impacts to the Industrial Revolution. Lisa Kailai Han, CNBC, 5 June 2026 As drug innovation advances toward earlier intervention and better long-term outcomes, the societal costs of undermining it through price controls will only grow. Tomas J. Philipson, Twin Cities, 4 June 2026 And over the years, Darling has noticed societal trends related to women and their careers. Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 4 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 9 Jun. 2026.

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