mysticism

noun

mys·​ti·​cism ˈmi-stə-ˌsi-zəm How to pronounce mysticism (audio)
1
: the experience of mystical union or direct communion with ultimate reality reported by mystics
2
: the belief that direct knowledge of God, spiritual truth, or ultimate reality can be attained through subjective experience (such as intuition or insight)
3
a
: vague speculation : a belief without sound basis
b
: a theory postulating the possibility of direct and intuitive acquisition of ineffable knowledge or power

Examples of mysticism in a Sentence

Jewish, Christian, and Islamic mysticism. a student of Eastern mysticism
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
At its best, Seventies prog aspired to develop a universal musical language that drew equally from classical and the blues, folk and jazz, psychedelia and Eastern mysticism. Ernesto Lechner, Rolling Stone, 6 Mar. 2025 Brown's Fascination With Prague Brown, known for extensive on-location research, chose Prague for its labyrinthine history and ties to mysticism. Jonathan Granoff, Newsweek, 29 Jan. 2025 Neptune, the planet of dreams, illusions and mysticism, is home in Pisces — transiting this zodiac sign since 2011 — amplifying these otherworldly qualities, while evoking a desire for escapism, spirituality and the pursuit of transcendence. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 19 Mar. 2025 Players adopt alter egos, from warriors to sorcerers, who traverse worlds of mysticism and monsters. Eric Francisco, Rolling Stone, 1 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for mysticism

Word History

Etymology

mystic entry 1 + -ism

First Known Use

1724, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of mysticism was in 1724

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Cite this Entry

“Mysticism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mysticism. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

mysticism

noun
mys·​ti·​cism ˈmis-tə-ˌsiz-əm How to pronounce mysticism (audio)
1
: the experience of mystical union or direct communication with God
2
: the belief that direct knowledge of God or of spiritual truth can be achieved through deep meditation

More from Merriam-Webster on mysticism

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