English Lexicon

Liberalism

/ˈlɪb.ər.əl.ɪ.zəm/
nounCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A political and economic philosophy that advocates for individual rights, civil liberties, and free markets.

    "The rise of liberalism in the 18th century significantly influenced democratic movements across Europe."
  2. 2

    A belief in the importance of social progress and reform, often associated with a commitment to equality and justice.

    "Many activists align themselves with liberalism to promote social change and address inequalities."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The term 'liberalism' originates from the Latin word 'liberalis', meaning 'pertaining to a free person'. It evolved in the 19th century during the Age of Enlightenment, reflecting a shift towards individual rights and freedoms, emphasizing the importance of liberty in political and economic contexts.

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