conservatism

[kuhn-sur-vuh-tiz-uhm]

noun

1. the disposition to preserve or restore what is established and traditional and to limit change.

2. the principles and practices of political conservatives.

conservatism

¹

/ kənˈsɜːvəˌtɪzəm /

noun

1. opposition to change and innovation

2. a political philosophy advocating the preservation of the best of the established order in society and opposing radical change

Conservatism

²

/ kənˈsɜːvəˌtɪzəm /

noun

1. the form of conservatism advocated by the Conservative Party

2. the policies, doctrines, or practices of the Conservative Party

conservatism

1. A general preference for the existing order of society, and an opposition to efforts to bring about sharp change. (Compare liberalism.)

Other Word Forms

• anticonservatism noun
• hyperconservatism noun
• overconservatism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of conservatism¹

First recorded in 1825–35; conservat(ive) + -ism

Example Sentences

Decades of research has shown that racial animus and racism are tied to support of the GOP, conservatism and, now, Trumpism.

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Both men, today and in 1993, are attempting to portray a pride in what they see as an understated patriotism and respect for traditions, a small c conservatism.

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In recent years, American centrism and political conservatism have dug their claws back into the media.

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Kirk was a controversial figure in US political discourse and had been hailed by many as the future of American conservatism with a talent for energising young conservatives.

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Charlie Kirk, 31, a controversial figure in American political discourse, has been hailed by many as the future of American conservatism with a knack for energising young conservatives.

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Related Words

• moderation 
• orthodoxy