nominalism
noun/ˈnɒmɪnəlɪzəm/
Frequency rank: #19,885 most common English word
Meaning
The philosophical view that universal or abstract concepts have no independent existence and are merely names or labels.
Example sentence
The philosopher defended nominalism by arguing that abstract concepts like 'justice' have no existence beyond the words we use for them.
Synonyms & related words
- particularism
- conventionalism
- conceptualism
Practice this word in the quiz
More words in ranks 19,801–19,900
- syzygythe alignment of three or more celestial bodies in a straight line, especially within a gravitational system.
- entailmentA necessary consequence or condition logically or legally attached to something.
- librationa slow oscillation or wobbling motion, especially the apparent wobbling of the Moon as seen from Earth, which reveals portions of its far side.
- spandrelThe roughly triangular space between the curve of an arch and the rectangular frame surrounding it, or a similar space in construction.
- chlorosisA condition in plants where leaves turn yellow due to lack of chlorophyll.
- optativeRelating to or denoting a grammatical mood that expresses a wish or desire.
- plosivea consonant sound made by stopping airflow completely and then releasing it suddenly.
- streetlampa lamp mounted on a tall post that lights a public street or road.
- disinflationA reduction in the rate of inflation, where prices still rise but more slowly than before.
- eudaimoniaA state of human flourishing, happiness, and well-being, especially as described in Aristotelian ethics.