noun

ecumenism

ee-KYOO-muh-nizm

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Ecumenism (noun) means the beliefs and efforts aimed at promoting unity and cooperation among different religious groups or denominations, particularly through the ecumenical movement. Example: “The conference brought together church leaders committed to ecumenism.”

noun

The beliefs and efforts aimed at promoting unity and cooperation among different religious groups or denominations, particularly through the ecumenical movement.

"The conference brought together church leaders committed to ecumenism."

"Ecumenism has encouraged rival denominations to hold joint services."

"She studied ecumenism as part of her theology degree."

How to use ecumenism

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishEcumenism is the push to get different religious groups or denominations working together instead of staying apart.

When to use it

It is a formal, specialist term used mainly in religious and academic writing.

Memory tip

Watch the spelling: it comes from ecumene, not from economy, even though the two words look similar.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

economism

Common pairings

promote ecumenism the spirit of ecumenism interfaith ecumenism Christian ecumenism

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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 “ecumenism” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The conference brought together church leaders committed to _____.

Etymology

Formed from ecumene with the suffix -ism, which turns the base into the noun for the associated movement or doctrine.

Origin: English

Synonyms

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ecumenicalism ecumenicism ecumenicity

Frequently asked questions

What does ecumenism mean?

Ecumenism refers to doctrines and practices that aim to bring different religious groups or denominations together, especially through the ecumenical movement.

What field is ecumenism associated with?

Ecumenism sits within philosophy, covering doctrines and practices that encourage unity, most visibly through the ecumenical movement itself.

What is another word for ecumenism?

Ecumenicalism, ecumenicism and ecumenicity are used as synonyms.

What is the meaning of ecumenism?

"ecumenism" (noun) means the beliefs and efforts aimed at promoting unity and cooperation among different religious groups or denominations, particularly through the ecumenical movement.