Americanism

noun

Amer·​i·​can·​ism ə-ˈmer-ə-kə-ˌni-zəm 

-ˈmər-, 

-ˈme-rə-

1

: a characteristic feature of American English especially as contrasted with British English

2

: attachment or allegiance to the traditions, interests, or ideals of the U.S.

3

a

: a custom or trait peculiar to America

b

: the political principles and practices essential to American culture

Examples of Americanism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

No patriots so defaced America as those who, in the name of Americanism, launched a witch hunt that became a byword around the world. — Ann Manov, Harpers Magazine, 23 June 2026

And that tended to create, in my parents’ sort of liberal-minded circle, a certain anti-Americanism. — David Frum, The Atlantic, 8 Apr. 2026

Chavismo defined itself globally by broadcasting fiery anti-Americanism while courting allies in Havana, Moscow, and Tehran to champion a multipolar world. — Boris Muñoz, Time, 3 Apr. 2026

This fear leads them to think and act in ways wholly out of line with traditional Americanism. — Christine Smallwood, Harpers Magazine, 24 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1779, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing Americanism

• Pan-Americanism

Rhymes for Americanism

• absolutism
• adventurism
• aestheticism
• africanism
• agnosticism
• alcoholism
• anachronism
• anglicanism
• antagonism
• arianism
• asceticism
• astigmatism

Kids Definition

Americanism

noun

Amer·​i·​can·​ism ə-ˈmer-ə-kə-ˌniz-əm 

1

: a word or meaning of a word that is common only in American English

2

: loyalty to the traditions, interests, or standards of the U.S.

3

: a custom or attitude common only to Americans