Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Showing results for eclecticism. Search instead for eclecticist.

eclecticism

American  
[ih-klek-tuh-siz-uhm] / ɪˈklɛk təˌsɪz əm /

noun

  1. the use or advocacy of an eclectic method.

  2. a tendency in architecture and the decorative arts to mix various historical styles with modern elements with the aim of combining the virtues of many styles or increasing allusive content.


eclecticism British  
/ ɪˈklɛktɪˌsɪzəm, ɛˈklɛk- /

noun

  1. an eclectic system or method

  2. the use or advocacy of such a system

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of eclecticism

First recorded in 1825–35; eclectic + -ism


Vocabulary lists containing eclecticism

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Even though the LP failed to chart, it was widely praised by critics at the time for its eclecticism, humor and vulnerability.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 22, 2026

It’s worth noting that the studios didn’t initially encourage Reiner’s eclecticism.

From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 15, 2025

Informed by the sounds he heard from James Brown, Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin, it was indicative of the eclecticism throughout his career.

From Seattle Times ● Jul. 17, 2023

"As a novice, I liked the idea of eclecticism and variety, and having freedom in the overall structure," he says.

From BBC ● Apr. 3, 2023

The same eclecticism was discernible in the proceedings of the home government.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 11, Slice 7 "Geoponici" to "Germany" by Various

Random Word

Spin the wheel and learn a new word!

Get a word

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Just like flashcards, but way more fun

Don't take our word for it. Leave the boring studying behind and join VocabTrainer today. You'll learn even faster and never look back.

Take me to Vocabulary.com