noun Uncommon

Marxism

MAHRK-sih-zuhm

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Marxism (noun) means the political and economic theory developed by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, which analyzes society through class struggle and argues for workers eventually overthrowing capitalism. Example: “Her thesis traced how Marxism shaped twentieth-century revolutionary movements.”

noun

The political and economic theory developed by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, which analyzes society through class struggle and argues for workers eventually overthrowing capitalism.

"Her thesis traced how Marxism shaped twentieth-century revolutionary movements."

"The professor explained Marxism as both an economic theory and a call to political action."

Loosely, any left-wing push for stronger state control, nationalisation, or welfare policies.

"Critics labelled the new tax proposal as creeping Marxism."

How to use Marxism

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe body of political and economic ideas built around Karl Marx's theory of class struggle and a classless, communist end-state.

Common mistake

Marxism (the theory) is distinct from communism (a system some states built while claiming to apply it) — the two get used interchangeably but aren't identical.

Common pairings

classical Marxism Marxism-Leninism a Marxism scholar

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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”.

Word forms

Plural: Marxisms

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

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Her thesis traced how _____ shaped twentieth-century revolutionary movements.

Etymology

From the surname Marx plus the suffix "-ism", meaning "the doctrine of."

Frequently asked questions

What does “Marxism” mean?

The word “Marxism” means the political and economic theory developed by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, which analyzes society through class struggle and argues for workers eventually overthrowing capitalism. In plain terms, the body of political and economic ideas built around Karl Marx's theory of class struggle and a classless, communist end-state.

How do you pronounce “Marxism”?

“Marxism” is pronounced MAHRK-sih-zuhm (/ˈmɑɹk.sɪ.zəm/ in IPA).

How do you use “Marxism” in a sentence?

Here is “Marxism” used in a sentence: “Her thesis traced how Marxism shaped twentieth-century revolutionary movements.”

What part of speech is “Marxism”?

“Marxism” is a noun.

Is “Marxism” a common word?

“Marxism” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “Marxism” have?

“Marxism” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the political and economic theory developed by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, which analyzes society through class struggle and argues for workers eventually overthrowing capitalism.

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