mysticism

noun

mys·​ti·​cism ˈmi-stə-ˌsi-zəm 

1

: the experience of mystical union or direct communion with ultimate reality reported by mystics

2

: the belief that direct knowledge of God, spiritual truth, or ultimate reality can be attained through subjective experience (such as intuition or insight)

3

a

: vague speculation : a belief without sound basis

b

: a theory postulating the possibility of direct and intuitive acquisition of ineffable knowledge or power

Examples of mysticism in a Sentence

Jewish, Christian, and Islamic mysticism.

a student of Eastern mysticism

Recent Examples on the Web

Especially over the last season and into this summer’s training camp, Burke has discussed with players the defenses that became the stuff of legend — of football spirituality and mysticism. — Jourdan Rodrigue, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026

Cats have at least been associated with women and mysticism since ancient Egypt and the goddess Bast, often portrayed as a women’s body with the head of a feline. — Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 9 Sep. 2026

All of this is rooted in the mysticism the forest holds in the hearts of Mississippians. — Wright Thompson, Southern Living, 28 Aug. 2026

Butterflycore is part of a fleet of aesthetics that focus on nature and mysticism. — Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

mystic entry 1 + -ism

First Known Use

1724, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for mysticism

• autism
• fascism
• racism
• sikhism
• sophism
• statism
• sufism
• thomism
• tourism
• tropism
• abolitionism
• aldosteronism

Kids Definition

mysticism

noun

mys·​ti·​cism ˈmis-tə-ˌsiz-əm 

1

: the experience of mystical union or direct communication with God

2

: the belief that direct knowledge of God or of spiritual truth can be achieved through deep meditation