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

Moon says opting for a bit of eclecticism is another way to infuse Art Deco decor into your home. —Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 10 Mar. 2026

For 42 years, Charlotte Molesworth, an artist, and her husband, Donald, have been creating a garden of almost dreamlike eclecticism. —Amy Waldman, Travel + Leisure, 9 Mar. 2026

Van Noten’s collections were singular in their eclecticism and polish, but always included a range of wearable, buyable clothes. —José Criales-Unzueta, Vanity Fair, 4 Mar. 2026

Longtime fans who adore her babymaker R&B anthems may be initially disappointed with the musical eclecticism. —Mosi Reeves, Rolling Stone, 13 Feb. 2026

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