negativism

noun

neg·​a·​tiv·​ism ˈne-gə-ti-ˌvi-zəm How to pronounce negativism (audio)
1
: an attitude of mind marked by skepticism especially about nearly everything affirmed by others
2
: a tendency to refuse to do, to do the opposite of, or to do something at variance with what is asked
negativist
ˈne-gə-ti-vist How to pronounce negativism (audio)
noun or adjective
negativistic
ˌne-gə-ti-ˈvi-stik How to pronounce negativism (audio)
adjective

Examples of negativism 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.
It can be characterized by three dimensions: feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion, increased mental distance and avoidance from one’s responsibilities, or feelings of negativism, cynicism, and despair. — Dominique Fluker, Essence, 4 Mar. 2024 That’s important in our current vortex of negativism. — Gary Baum, The Hollywood Reporter, 29 Nov. 2023

Word History

Etymology

negative entry 1 + -ism

First Known Use

1824, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of negativism was in 1824

Rhymes for negativism

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Browse Nearby Words

negative valence
negativism
negatory
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Cite this Entry

“Negativism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/negativism. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.

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Medical Definition

negativism

noun
neg·​a·​tiv·​ism ˈneg-ət-iv-ˌiz-əm How to pronounce negativism (audio)
1
: an attitude of mind marked by skepticism about nearly everything affirmed by others
2
: a tendency to refuse to do, to do the opposite of, or to do something at variance with what is asked
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