ideology

American  

[ahy-dee-ol-uh-jee, id-ee-] / ˌaɪ diˈɒl ə dʒi, ˌɪd i- /

noun

plural

ideologies

1. the body of doctrine, myth, belief, etc., that guides an individual, social movement, institution, class, or large group.

2. such a body of doctrine, myth, etc., with reference to some political and social plan, as that of fascism, along with the devices for putting it into operation.

3. Philosophy.

   1. the study of the nature and origin of ideas.

   2. a system that derives ideas exclusively from sensation.

4. theorizing of a visionary or impractical nature.

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ideology British  

/ ˌaɪdɪəˈlɒdʒɪkəl, ˌaɪdɪˈɒlədʒɪ /

noun

1. a body of ideas that reflects the beliefs and interests of a nation, political system, etc and underlies political action

2. philosophy sociol the set of beliefs by which a group or society orders reality so as to render it intelligible

3. speculation that is imaginary or visionary

4. the study of the nature and origin of ideas

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ideology Cultural  

1. A system of beliefs or theories, usually political, held by an individual or a group. Capitalism, communism, and socialism are usually called ideologies.

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Other Word Forms

• ideological adjective
• ideologically adverb

Etymology

Origin of ideology

First recorded in 1790–1800; ideo- + -logy

Example Sentences

Affordability was dominant among all voters, regardless of political ideology, the poll found.

From Los Angeles Times

His killing, if confirmed, would be a major blow against the Islamic republic, undermining a key figure seen as capable of navigating both ideology and diplomacy.

From Barron's

This serves as further evidence that the antecedent of the Houthi movement respected the language of power, readily cooperating with those providing it, regardless of ideology.

From The Wall Street Journal

Its harsh regime and ideology left deep scars.

From BBC

Investigators found a Quran in the suspect’s vehicle and Iranian imagery among his belongings, prompting federal authorities to examine whether ideology played a role.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• creed
• culture
• dogma
• outlook
• philosophy
• theory
• view