pluralism

noun

plu·​ral·​ism ˈplu̇r-ə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce pluralism (audio)
1
: the holding of two or more offices or positions (such as benefices) at the same time
2
: the quality or state of being plural
3
a
: a theory that there are more than one or more than two kinds of ultimate reality
b
: a theory that reality is composed of a plurality of entities
4
a
: a state of society in which members of diverse ethnic, racial, religious, or social groups maintain and develop their traditional culture or special interest within the confines of a common civilization
b
: a concept, doctrine, or policy advocating this state
pluralist adjective or noun
pluralistic adjective
pluralistically adverb

Examples of pluralism in a Sentence

He spoke of the benefits of cultural pluralism. She's a champion of pluralism.
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.
This unconventional column is based on value pluralism — the idea that each of us has multiple values that are equally valid but that often conflict with each other. Vox Staff, Vox, 5 Nov. 2024 This approach fosters opportunity pluralism, promoting multiple pathways to jobs, careers, and human flourishing. Bruno V. Manno, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024 Such dual-economy arrangements later allowed the great imperial powers to make their commitment to free exchange, and to a degree of pluralism, commensurable with their ongoing subjugation of native peoples. Gideon Lewis-Kraus, The New Yorker, 21 Oct. 2024 My advice column is based on value pluralism, the idea — developed by philosophers like Isaiah Berlin and Bernard Williams — that each person has multiple values that are equally valid but that sometimes conflict with each other. Sigal Samuel, Vox, 8 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for pluralism 

Word History

First Known Use

1772, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pluralism was in 1772

Dictionary Entries Near pluralism

Cite this Entry

“Pluralism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pluralism. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on pluralism

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!