pluralism

noun

plu·​ral·​ism ˈplu̇r-ə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce pluralism (audio)
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 adjective or noun
pluralistic adjective
pluralistically 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The depth and breadth of this administration’s disregard for civil liberties, political pluralism, the separation of powers and legal constraints of all kinds mark it as an authoritarian regime. Natalie Proulx, New York Times, 1 May 2025 An invitation to all constituents that includes non-evangelical faith leaders might be seen as an attempt at pluralism, but to many non-Christians and to most non-believers, such events show support for a specific theology — whether or not that was intended. David Williamson, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 May 2025 The philanthropic sector may or may not follow the pluralism pivot. Emma Green, New Yorker, 14 Apr. 2025 Recently, there has been a growing focus on pluralism—the concept of recognizing different identities and viewpoints—that may ease concerns about free speech, political diversity, and religious expression on campus. Jamie Merisotis, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pluralism

Word History

First Known Use

1772, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pluralism was in 1772

Cite this Entry

“Pluralism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pluralism. Accessed 9 May. 2025.

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