conservatism

[kuh n-sur-vuh-tiz-uh m] /kənˈsɜr vəˌtɪz əm/
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.
Origin
1825-35; conservat(ive) + -ism
Related forms
anticonservatism, noun
hyperconservatism, noun
overconservatism, noun
Examples from the web for conservatism
  • conservatism thus rejects patrilineal descent, which is accepted by the reform movement.
British Dictionary definitions for conservatism

conservatism

/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

/kənˈsɜːvəˌtɪzəm/
noun (in Britain, Canada, etc)
1.
the form of conservatism advocated by the Conservative Party
2.
the policies, doctrines, or practices of the Conservative Party
Word Origin and History for conservatism
n.

1835, in reference to the Conservative party in British politics; from conservative + -ism. From 1840 in reference to conservative principles generally.

conservatism in Culture

conservatism definition


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