eclecticism

noun

eclec·​ti·​cism i-ˈklek-tə-ˌsi-zəm 

e-

: the theory or practice of an eclectic method

Examples of eclecticism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Lawrence’s eclecticism transcends the seasons. —Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 9 Dec. 2025

Coll’s early works, with their prickly eclecticism and their fondness for instrumental grotesquerie, reflect the influence of Adès and György Ligeti, among others. —Alex Ross, New Yorker, 1 Dec. 2025

In terms of style, the 2026 Interior Design Trends by 1stDibs pinpointed that eclecticism and maximalism were among the top design trends. —Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 17 Nov. 2025

His eclecticism is most apparent in the festival’s Zibaldone program, one of his signature contributions. —Ben Croll, Variety, 8 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

eclectic entry 1 + -ism

First Known Use

1798, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for eclecticism

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

Medical Definition

eclecticism

noun

eclec·​ti·​cism -ˈklek-tə-ˌsiz-əm 

1

: a theory or practice (as of medicine or psychotherapy) that combines doctrines or methods (as therapeutic procedures) from diverse sources

2

: a system of medicine once popular in the United States that depended on plant remedies