fundamentalism

noun

fun·​da·​men·​tal·​ism ˌfən-də-ˈmen-tə-ˌli-zəm 

1

a

often capitalized : a movement in 20th century Protestantism emphasizing the literally interpreted Bible as fundamental to Christian life and teaching

b

: the beliefs of this movement

c

: adherence to such beliefs

a minister noted for his strict fundamentalism

2

: a movement or attitude stressing strict and literal adherence to a set of basic principles

Islamic fundamentalism

political fundamentalism

fundamentalist

ˌfən-də-ˈmen-tə-list 

noun

fundamentalist adjective

or fundamentalistic

ˌfən-də-ˌmen-tə-ˈli-stik 

Examples of fundamentalism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The only thing Serena ever wanted more than a baby was a pulpit for her own fundamentalism. —Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 8 Apr. 2025

Marty did not consider violent fundamentalism the only possibility for religion in the modern age. —Eboo Patel, Chicago Tribune, 7 Mar. 2025

Let curiosity — not fundamentalism — be your guide to a brighter future. —Colin Bedell, Them., 25 Apr. 2025

The Hill: Inside a conservative ecosystem built on free-market fundamentalism and a reflexive aversion to tax increases, some who embrace Trump have found themselves in a delicate position during the early months of a roller coaster administration. —Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 10 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

fundamental entry 1 + -ism

First Known Use

1912, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for fundamentalism

• absolutism
• adventurism
• aestheticism
• africanism
• agnosticism
• alcoholism
• anabolism
• anachronism
• anglicanism
• antagonism
• arianism
• asceticism