relativism

noun

rel·​a·​tiv·​ism ˈre-lə-ti-ˌvi-zəm 

1

a

: a theory that knowledge is relative to the limited nature of the mind and the conditions of knowing

b

: a view that ethical truths depend on the individuals and groups holding them

2

: relativity

relativist

ˈre-lə-tə-vist 

noun

Examples of relativism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For the time being, most questions of relativism are being set aside for two reasons. — Nayef Al-Rodhan, Foreign Affairs, 12 Aug. 2015

To be a conservative is, among other things, is thus to reject moral relativism. — Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Oct. 2025

This relativism carries clear dangers. — Christopher Beha, New Yorker, 14 Feb. 2026

Morals, on the other hand are individual and in my opinion, moral relativism has become the norm. — Joe Kinsey Outkick, FOXNews.com, 1 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for relativism

• activism
• albinism
• altruism
• aneurism
• animism
• aphorism
• atomism
• barbarism
• bolshevism
• botulism
• brahmanism
• calvinism