Syncretism - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Syncretism is the blending of different beliefs, traditions, or cultural practices into a unified system, often resulting from cultural exchange or religious integration. It highlights harmony between diverse elements.
Definition:
The merging of different beliefs or practices into a unified system.
Synonyms:
amalgamation, fusion, blending, integration
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
separation, division
Common Collocations:
religious syncretism, cultural syncretism, artistic syncretism
Derivatives:
syncretic, syncretistic
Usage Tips:
Use "syncretism" to describe the blending of traditions, especially in religion or culture.
Common Phrases:
cultural syncretism, religious syncretism, syncretic tradition
Etymology:
From Greek "synkretismos," meaning union of communities or reconciliation of beliefs.
Examples:
- 1. The festival reflects the syncretism of indigenous and colonial traditions.
- 2. Syncretism often occurs when cultures interact and exchange ideas over time.
- 3. Religious syncretism can be seen in holidays combining pagan and Christian elements.
- 4. Artistic syncretism blends styles from different regions into a cohesive form.