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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

Her Los Angeles home still feels modern but with a touch of eclecticism.

From Los Angeles Times Apr. 22, 2025

The secret, of course, was to lean into the incredible eclecticism of her career, all while avoiding the sleepy, saccharine pitfalls of a “Silent Night” -heavy holiday release.

From Seattle Times Oct. 20, 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

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