holism

noun

ho·lism | \ ˈhō-ˌli-zəm

Definition of holism

1 : a theory that the universe and especially living nature is correctly seen in terms of interacting wholes (as of living organisms) that are more than the mere sum of elementary particles

2 : a study or method of treatment that is concerned with wholes or with complete systems : a holistic study or method of treatment

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Examples of holism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web No creature better exemplifies the holism of nature than freshwater eels. — David Doubilet, National Geographic, 12 June 2019 If man comforts himself in realizable ideals, he will be drawn from individualism into a passive, Eastern holism. — Sahil Handa, National Review, 4 June 2019 There's loads of omm-ing at this legendary house of holism. — Dana Wood, Town & Country, 13 Mar. 2015 The cover of the first issue was an image of the earth — another sphere — taken from space, exemplifying its spirit of holism. — Nikil Saval, New York Times, 28 Mar. 2016

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'holism.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Holism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/holism. Accessed 17 Jan. 2022.

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More Definitions for holism

holism

noun

ho·lism | \ ˈhō-ˌliz-əm

Medical Definition of holism

1 : a theory that the universe and especially living nature is correctly seen in terms of interacting wholes (as of living organisms) that are more than the mere sum of elementary particles

2 : a holistic study or method of treatment