monotheism
Americannoun
noun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of monotheism
First recorded in 1650–60; mono- + (poly)theism
Explanation
Monotheism is the belief in a single all-powerful god, as opposed to religions that believe in multiple gods. Judaism, Christianity, and Islam are widely practiced forms of monotheism. Monotheism comes from the combination of the Greek prefixes monos-, “alone” or “single,” and theo-, “god.” There are many words that come from the Greek base theo-: theology, polytheist, and atheism, to name a few. All of these theo- words have to do with god, gods, or the study of religion. Monotheism is any religion that believes in one god. Buddhism, for instance, isn’t an example of monotheism because Buddha is not considered a god who created the universe.
Vocabulary lists containing monotheism
Human Geography - Middle School
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Human Geography - High School
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100 SAT Words Beginning with "M"
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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.
Beier told Salon that the "verdict" among scholars on "Moses and Monotheism" is "mixed," but added that it has literary value independent of its scientific and historical veracity.
From Salon • Oct. 29, 2022
His numerous books and pamphlets are required reading for Islamic militants around the world, who eagerly follow the latest proclamations on Maqdisi’s website, the Pulpit of Monotheism and Jihad.
From The Guardian • Jun. 10, 2015
In an attempt to claw back his authority, Mr Maqdisi has revamped his website, the Pulpit of Monotheism and Jihad, and reformed his Sharia council, grouping a dozen or so clerics from Mauritania to Yemen.
From Economist • Oct. 30, 2014
His first recommendation was “Taifat al-tawhid wal-jihad,” or Monotheism and Jihad Group.
From Time • Jan. 11, 2013
Monotheism, if it ever prevailed, early gave place to sun and star worship, or simple idolatry.
From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 2, Slice 3 "Apollodorus" to "Aral" by Various
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
