pluralism

noun

plu·​ral·​ism ˈplu̇r-ə-ˌli-zəm 

1

: the holding of two or more offices or positions (such as benefices) at the same time

2

: the quality or state of being plural

3

a

: a theory that there are more than one or more than two kinds of ultimate reality

b

: a theory that reality is composed of a plurality of entities

4

a

: a state of society in which members of diverse ethnic, racial, religious, or social groups maintain and develop their traditional culture or special interest within the confines of a common civilization

b

: a concept, doctrine, or policy advocating this state

pluralist

ˈplu̇r-ə-list 

adjective or noun

pluralistic

ˌplu̇r-ə-ˈli-stik 

adjective

pluralistically

ˌplu̇r-ə-ˈli-sti-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of pluralism in a Sentence

He spoke of the benefits of cultural pluralism.

She's a champion of pluralism.

Recent Examples on the Web

The rise of social media, meanwhile, has only accelerated the march of secularization, pluralism, inclusivity, and cultural openness—on the right as much as the left. —Andrew Cockburn, Harper's Magazine, 19 Aug. 2024

This is certainly true of the Trumpist version of the Republican Party, which has made clear its disdain not merely for pluralism and individual rights but also for democracy itself. —Sheri Berman, Foreign Affairs, 23 Apr. 2024

On Tuesday, the second night of this year’s Democratic National Convention, when the Obamas were the much awaited headline speakers, their party’s barely manageable pluralism was on particularly exuberant display. —Vinson Cunningham, The New Yorker, 21 Aug. 2024

So, the filibuster is increasingly important to protect federalism — the pluralism of disparate states. —George F. Will, Washington Post, 26 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1772, in the meaning defined at sense 1