noun

creationism

kree-AY-shuh-niz-uhm

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Creationism (noun) means Creationism is the belief that a divine being deliberately created the world, often in the specific way described by a religious text such as the Book of Genesis or the Quran. Example: “Creationism is taught in some private schools alongside evolutionary biology.”

noun

theology Creationism is the belief that a divine being deliberately created the world, often in the specific way described by a religious text such as the Book of Genesis or the Quran.

"Creationism is taught in some private schools alongside evolutionary biology."

"Debates between creationism and evolution have continued for over a century."

"Her creationism was shaped by a literal reading of the Book of Genesis."

theology In theology, creationism is the doctrine that each human soul is individually created by God rather than passed down from one's parents.

"Creationism, in this theological sense, contrasts with the idea that souls are inherited from parents."

"Theologians have debated creationism against traducianism when discussing the soul's origin."

How to use creationism

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe belief that the world was made on purpose by a god, rather than by natural processes alone.

When to use it

The term carries strong associations with religious and political debate, so it is rarely used neutrally.

Memory tip

The related word creationist names a person who holds this belief, rather than the belief itself.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

believe in creationism teach creationism creationism versus evolution reject creationism

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “creationism” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

_____ is taught in some private schools alongside evolutionary biology.

Etymology

Creationism is formed by adding the suffix -ism to creation, the act or process of creating.

Origin: English

Antonyms

traducianism

Rhymes for creationism

hedonism antagonism anachronism impressionism

See all rhymes for creationism →

Frequently asked questions

What is creationism?

Creationism is the belief that the world, or the human soul, was created deliberately by a divine being rather than arising through natural processes alone.

Is creationism a religious idea?

Yes, it is rooted in Abrahamic religious teaching and often draws on texts such as the Book of Genesis or the Quran.

What is the difference between creationism and intelligent design?

Intelligent design is a more specific belief that falls within the broader category of creationism.

What is the meaning of creationism?

"creationism" (noun) means creationism is the belief that a divine being deliberately created the world, often in the specific way described by a religious text such as the Book of Genesis or the Quran.