pastoralism
Americannoun
Etymology
Origin of pastoralism
Explanation
Pastoralism is a kind of work that's done in a rural setting. A town with an economy based in pastoralism might have a higher population of farm animals than people. You can also use this noun for a style of art that focuses on farms and other features of rural living. Both meanings of pastoralism stem from the Latin word pastor, or "shepherd." The type of work a shepherd does is a perfect example of pastoralism, as is a painting of a shepherd in the fields with a flock of sheep.
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.
The fluvial suspended sediment threatens the water quality downstream and thus the aquatic ecosystems, the river infrastructure such as hydropower plants and bridges as well as agriculture and pastoralism.
From Science Daily • Dec. 4, 2024
Evidence for dairying now corresponds with the earliest evidence for domesticated herd animals on the Tibetan Plateau, which suggests dairying and pastoralism spread together in this region.
From Salon • Apr. 13, 2023
These lands also have deep cultural significance based on their role in pastoralism or fire practices.
From Scientific American • Mar. 3, 2023
French President Emmanuel Macron reacts during a visit focused on pastoralism in Argeles-Gazost, southern France, July 21, 2022.
From Reuters • Jul. 28, 2022
“Got to do with art or pastoralism or something. That’s how I gotta tie together John Donne and Izaak Walton, see.”
From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt
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.
