liberalism

noun

lib·​er·​al·​ism ˈli-b(ə-)rə-ˌli-zəm 

1

: the quality or state of being liberal

2

a

often capitalized : a movement in modern Protestantism emphasizing intellectual liberty and the spiritual and ethical content of Christianity

b

: a theory in economics emphasizing individual freedom from restraint and usually based on free competition, the self-regulating market, and the gold standard (see gold standard sense 1)

c

: a political philosophy based on belief in progress, the essential goodness of the human race, and the autonomy (see autonomy sense 2) of the individual and standing for the protection of political and civil liberties

specifically : such a philosophy that considers government as a crucial instrument for amelioration of social inequities (such as those involving race, gender, or class)

d

capitalized : the principles and policies of a Liberal (see liberal entry 1 sense 6b) party

liberalist

ˈli-b(ə-)rə-list 

noun or adjective

liberalistic

ˌli-b(ə-)rə-ˈli-stik 

adjective

Synonyms

• left
• leftism
• left wing

Examples of liberalism in a Sentence

liberalism had always claimed to stand for the greatest social good

Recent Examples on the Web

The liberalism of the 1960s that bequeathed us the current woke democracy brought with it in turn a veritable Third Bill of Rights, proclaiming the imperative justice of creating our own lifestyles, cultures, morality, and identity. —Charles Kesler, National Review, 20 June 2024

With this analysis, critical of the foundations of liberalism without betraying liberal values, Taylor manages to be at once precise and prophetic. —Adam Gopnik, The New Yorker, 17 June 2024

The panel will highlight perspectives from beyond the West, making the case for liberalism’s universal value and indispensable role in preserving the conditions for human freedom and flourishing globally. —Vox Communications, Vox, 11 June 2024

But to live in California also is to live in a complacent bubble of liberalism. —Erika D. Smith, Los Angeles Times, 6 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

see liberal entry 1

First Known Use

1815, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Kids Definition

liberalism

noun

lib·​er·​al·​ism ˈlib(-ə)-rə-ˌliz-əm 

: a political belief stressing progress, the essential goodness of humankind, and individual freedom