O·ri·en·tal·ism also o·ri·en·tal·ism 
(ôr′ē-ĕntl-ĭz′əm)
(ôr′ē-ĕntl-ĭz′əm)n.
1. Often Offensive A quality, mannerism, or custom specific to or characteristic of the Orient.
2. Scholarly study of Asian cultures and languages, especially by Westerners.
3. The adoption by Western artists of decorative elements evoking Asian or North African cultures.
O′ri·ental·ist adj. & n.