nonconformism
|non-con-form-ism|
🇺🇸
/ˌnɑn.kənˈfɔr.mɪ.zəm/
🇬🇧
/ˌnɒn.kənˈfɔː.mɪ.zəm/
refusal to conform
Etymology
'nonconformism' originates from English, specifically the word 'nonconformist' plus the suffix '-ism', where 'non-' meant 'not' and 'conform' comes from Latin 'conformare' meaning 'to form together.'
'nonconformism' changed from the adjective and noun 'nonconformist' (used from the 17th century to describe religious dissent) and the noun form 'nonconformism' developed from that usage into modern English 'nonconformism.'
Initially, it meant 'religious dissent from the established church', but over time it evolved into its current broader meaning of 'refusal or failure to conform to accepted customs or practices.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the refusal or failure to conform to established customs, attitudes, or practices; a disposition to behave independently of accepted norms.
Her nonconformism made her unpopular in the conservative town.
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Noun 2
historically (especially in British usage), dissent from the Church of England or refusal to conform to its practices; the movement or condition of religious dissenters (Nonconformists).
In the 17th century, nonconformism was a significant force in English religious life.
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Last updated: 2025/10/16 11:59