relativism

noun

rel·​a·​tiv·​ism ˈre-lə-ti-ˌvi-zəm How to pronounce relativism (audio)
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
relativist noun

Examples of relativism in a Sentence

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 solution isn't cultural relativism. Dee Coakley, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2025 Yet Oyeyemi sometimes seems to go further, endorsing a relativism so deep that even provisional consensus is out of reach. Katy Waldman, New Yorker, 18 Aug. 2025 Not hedging, not relativism, and certainly not silence. Larry Hogan, Baltimore Sun, 4 June 2025 Benedict harshly criticized relativism in the Catholic faith, an emerging trend where nothing was considered a definitive source of religious truth. Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for relativism

Word History

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of relativism was in 1865

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Cite this Entry

“Relativism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relativism. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

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