societal

adjective

so·​ci·​e·​tal sə-ˈsī-ə-tᵊl How to pronounce societal (audio)
: of or relating to society : social
societal forces
societally adverb

Examples of societal 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.
Taking us back in time, Projecto Global brings together political and societal insight with suspense and high-octane action. Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 30 Jan. 2026 Residents say the new openness has brought common societal woes such as drug use to Hildale and Colorado City. Jacques Billeaud, Los Angeles Times, 30 Jan. 2026 In an age when polarized politics have whipped extremists into a frenzy and disagreeing with someone’s views justifies physical assault among fringe elements, the assault on Omar is a new abysmal milestone of societal degradation. Boston Herald Editorial Staff, Boston Herald, 29 Jan. 2026 While the period piece is an alluring tale of heartbreak, societal expectations, and love, there is explicit content within each season. Marilyn La Jeunesse, Parents, 29 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for societal

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of societal was in 1890

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Cite this Entry

“Societal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/societal. Accessed 5 Feb. 2026.

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