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

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

This is a win-win for anti-Americanism and its greed. — Jay Reddick, The Orlando Sentinel, 10 Mar. 2026

O'Donnell took additional issue with her feeling that Hasselbeck didn't defend the comedian and actress against accusations of anti-Americanism due to her opposition to military advances in Iraq. — Joey Nolfi, Entertainment Weekly, 5 Mar. 2026

By twice keeping San Diego players off the field because of the color of their skin after refusing to allow a Massachusetts player to take the field for the same reason, Chaillaux — the Legion’s varlet of Americanism — struck out. — Bill Swank, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Feb. 2026

How much of the politics of Chávez and Maduro was based on anti-Americanism? — Isaac Chotiner, New Yorker, 5 Jan. 2026

The truth is that values such as support for Hamas or Hezbollah are simply incompatible with Americanism—period. — MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2025

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