noun
anomie
AN-uh-mee
Anomie (noun) means a breakdown of shared social norms and values, leaving people without clear standards to live by; also the personal sense of rootlessness that follows. Example: “The study describes the anomie of a town after the factory closed.”
noun
1
A breakdown of shared social norms and values, leaving people without clear standards to live by; also the personal sense of rootlessness that follows.
"The study describes the anomie of a town after the factory closed."
How to use anomie
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA breakdown of the shared rules that hold society together.
When to use it
Academic — sociology.
Easily confused with
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The study describes the _____ of a town after the factory closed.
Etymology
From Greek "anomia," lawlessness, from "a-" (without) plus "nomos" (law). It entered English as a sociological term through French.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for anomie
See all rhymes for anomie →Frequently asked questions
What is anomie?
A condition in which the shared rules and expectations that hold a society together weaken or break down, so people no longer have a clear sense of what is expected. It is also used for the individual feeling of disconnection that results.
What is the difference between anomie and alienation?
Anomie is about the absence of norms — the rules themselves have broken down. Alienation is about estrangement from work, others or oneself. They often occur together but are not the same idea.
What is the meaning of anomie?
"anomie" (noun) means a breakdown of shared social norms and values, leaving people without clear standards to live by; also the personal sense of rootlessness that follows.
What is another word for anomie?
Other words for "anomie" include normlessness, alienation, anomy.
