psychotaxis

noun

psy·​cho·​taxis

ˌsīkō+

: an involuntary adjustment of one's modes of thought and action for keeping the agreeable and avoiding the disagreeable as a mechanism of ego defense

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from psych- + -taxis

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Rhymes for psychotaxis

• chemotaxis
• epistaxis
• prophylaxis
• anaphylaxis
• axis
• praxis
• taxus
• chemoprophylaxis