commercialism

noun

com·​mer·​cial·​ism kə-ˈmər-shə-ˌli-zəm 

1

: commercial spirit, institutions, or methods

2

: excessive emphasis on profit

commercialist

kə-ˈmər-sh(ə-)list 

noun

commercialistic

kə-ˌmər-shə-ˈli-stik 

adjective

Examples of commercialism in a Sentence

the commercialism of modern society

the increasing commercialism of the Christmas holiday

Recent Examples on the Web

For those weary of the overt commercialism surrounding those glitzy showpieces, the GAA provides a refreshing antidote. — Conor O'Neill, New York Times, 27 July 2026

The godless ’60s had radicalized many Christians who saw the toxic stew of drugs, rock ’n’ roll, and shallow commercialism as a sign of the end times and vowed to reverse the demonic tide. — Literary Hub, 24 July 2026

While commercialism exists, the authentic human connection ignited by shared emotions, like a goal celebration, represents the Cup's most enduring and invaluable legacy, transcending mere competition. — Vibhas Ratanjee, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026

That’s not to say that Davis solely chased commercialism at the expense of art. — Spencer Kornhaber, The Atlantic, 26 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for commercialism

• activism
• albinism
• altruism
• aneurism
• animism
• aphorism
• atomism
• barbarism
• bolshevism
• botulism
• brahmanism
• calvinism