Lockean
|lo-ki-an|
🇺🇸
/ˈloʊkiən/
🇬🇧
/ˈlɒkiən/
of or relating to John Locke
Etymology
'Lockean' originates from Modern English, formed by adding the adjectival suffix '-ean' to the surname 'Locke' (referring to the philosopher John Locke), where the suffix '-ean' marks relation or belonging.
'Lockean' developed in English usage by attaching '-ean' to the proper name 'Locke' to mean 'of or pertaining to Locke'; the surname 'Locke' itself is an English family name (used for John Locke, 1632–1704), and the adjectival formation follows a common pattern (e.g., 'Cartesian' from 'Descartes').
Initially used to denote direct followers or explicit disciples of John Locke, the term broadened to describe ideas, theories, or features that reflect Locke's philosophy more generally (e.g., Lockean influences in political theory, epistemology, or moral philosophy).
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a follower, supporter, or advocate of John Locke's philosophical or political views; someone who adopts Lockean principles.
Many prominent 18th-century writers were self-described Lockeans who promoted religious toleration and property rights.
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Adjective 1
relating to, characteristic of, or consistent with the ideas, philosophy, or writings of the 17th-century philosopher John Locke (e.g., empiricism, theories of mind, natural rights, or political liberalism).
Her argument was distinctly Lockean, emphasizing individual rights and empirically grounded knowledge.
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Last updated: 2025/09/13 05:10