Definition of deism
: a movement or system of thought advocating natural (see 1natural 8b) religion, emphasizing morality, and in the 18th century denying the interference of the Creator with the laws of the universe
Read the Latest from M-W
Did You Know?
Belief in God based on reason rather than revelation or the teaching of any specific religion is known as deism. The word originated in England in the early 17th century as a rejection of orthodox Christianity. Deists asserted that reason could find evidence of God in nature and that God had created the world and then left it to operate under the natural laws devised by God. By the late 18th century, deism was the dominant religious attitude among Europe’s educated classes; it was accepted by many upper-class Americans of the same era, including the first three US presidents.
1682
First Known Use of deism
1682
Other Religion (Eastern and Other) Terms
Zen, antinomian, avatar, gnosticism, illuminati, ineffable, karma, koan, mantra
Learn More about deism
-
See words that rhyme with deism Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about deism
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up deism? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!