What does revivalism mean?
Revivalism denotes an organized return to an earlier religion, belief, practice, style, or idea. Its best-established historical association is with religious revivalism, particularly the energetic preaching, communal worship, and public campaigns characteristic of nineteenth-century evangelical movements. The term can also describe renewed interest in traditional art, architecture, music, political doctrines, or social practices. Unlike the simpler word “revival,” which can name any process of reappearance, “revivalism” often implies sustained activity, promotion, or a movement organized around the return. Its connotations vary: in religious settings it may emphasize spiritual renewal and missionary energy, while in cultural and political discussions it can suggest nostalgia or an uncritical imitation of the past. Used carefully, the word identifies more than a temporary trend: it points to the conscious revival and defense of an older form of life or thought.
nounRevivalism is the renewed promotion or revival of religious beliefs and practices, especially through organized public movements. More broadly, it refers to renewed interest in an older movement, idea, practice, or cultural form.
- The organized revival of religious beliefs, practices, or commitments, especially in a movement seeking renewed public participation.
- The renewed promotion of an earlier idea, practice, artistic form, or cultural tradition.
- A broader tendency characterized by renewed enthusiasm for something associated with the past.
"The festival reflected a broader revivalism in traditional craftsmanship."
"Nineteenth-century revivalism encouraged converts to gather for communal worship and public testimony."
"The designer rejected historical revivalism and developed an aesthetic based on contemporary materials."
Rare and usually restricted to distinct historical or ideological forms of revivalism; the word is normally used as an uncountable mass noun.
"The historian compared revivalisms in religion and architecture."
Revivalism is more than a comeback: it gives an old idea new life as a movement.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does revivalism come from?
Revivalism was formed in English from “revive” and the suffix “-ism.” “Revive” comes through Old French from Latin revivere, a compound of the prefix re-, meaning “again,” and vivere, “to live.” The development of the word reflects the emergence of organized religious revival movements, before its senses broadened to cultural and political movements devoted to renewing earlier traditions.
Related word forms
How revivalism is actually used
The word is most strongly associated with religious movements, especially nineteenth-century evangelical revivals. In broader cultural, artistic, and political contexts, it may sound critical or nostalgic, suggesting an uncritical return to the past.
Easily confused with revivalism
A revival is the event or process of something reappearing or regaining activity, whereas revivalism often denotes a movement, tendency, or active promotion of that return.