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

Dario’s debut for Versace was all in the mix; the Gianni refs, the vintage-y layering and eclecticism, the youthful offhand sexiness and dare-to-be different vibe. —Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 29 Sep. 2025

There is more where that came from—incendiary pop hooks collaged with club beats and theatrical interludes, with a quickness and eclecticism that rivals hyperpop—on debut album That’s Showbiz Baby! —Jazz Monroe, Pitchfork, 12 Sep. 2025

This is an album of dazzling, free-flowing eclecticism: The rap is lean and taut, the reggae sways like the coolest island breeze, and the love rhapsodies swoon, thanks to the funky elegance of her own multitracked harmonies. —Ew Staff Published, EW.com, 14 Aug. 2025

And a whole new frontier in the band’s musical eclecticism. —Peter Ames Carlin, Rolling Stone, 13 Aug. 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