noun
anarchism
AN-uh-kiz-um
Anarchism (noun) means the political belief that all forms of government are undesirable or unnecessary and that society could work without a state. Example: “She wrote her dissertation on the history of anarchism.”
noun
1
The political belief that all forms of government are undesirable or unnecessary and that society could work without a state.
"She wrote her dissertation on the history of anarchism."
"Anarchism rejects the idea that people need a state to organise their lives."
"He was drawn to anarchism as a student."
How to use anarchism
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe belief that society would do better without a government or state.
When to use it
It is a fairly formal word used in politics and philosophy.
Memory tip
Use anarchism for the belief and anarchy for a society without rulers.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
political anarchism
philosophy of anarchism
history of anarchism
advocate of anarchism
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like anarchism.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She wrote her dissertation on the history of _____.
Etymology
The word is formed in English from anarchy plus the suffix -ism.
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for anarchism
See all rhymes for anarchism →Frequently asked questions
What does anarchism mean?
Anarchism is the belief that government is undesirable or unnecessary and that society could function without a state.
Is anarchism the same as anarchy?
No. Anarchism is a set of political and philosophical beliefs, while anarchy is the state of being without authority or a governing body.
What is the plural of anarchism?
The plural is anarchisms, though the word is usually uncountable.
What is the meaning of anarchism?
"anarchism" (noun) means the political belief that all forms of government are undesirable or unnecessary and that society could work without a state.
