[1785–95; monastic + -ism]This word is first recorded in the period 1785–95. Other words that entered Englishat around the same time include: crossover, dualism, initiative, plateau, preemptive-ism is a suffix appearing in loanwords from Greek, where it was used to form action nounsfrom verbs (baptism). On this model, -ism is used as a productive suffix in the formation of nouns denoting action or practice,state or condition, principles, doctrines, a usage or characteristic, devotion oradherence, etc. (criticism; barbarism; Darwinism; despotism; plagiarism; realism; witticism; intellectualism)
Examples of 'monasticism' in a sentence
monasticism
There is a joyless monasticism in his dogged conquest of stacks of research.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
Unlike traditional monasticism, such communities are open to married couples.
Times, Sunday Times (2015)
His influence on them led to his being regarded as the father of monasticism.
Times, Sunday Times (2015)
Or are you discouraged by the austerity — monasticism, even — of the regime?
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
This already intriguing combination of militarism and monasticism soon gave way to an equally mysterious, yet very real, power.
The Times Literary Supplement (2014)
Almost lost are the traditions of response and theory embodied in the contemplative tradition, once at home in monasticism.