conservatism
UK[kənˈsɜːvətɪzəm]US[kənˈsɜːrvətɪzəm]
n
The tendency to resist great or sudden change and to preserve traditional institutions and practices.
n
The principles and policies of a Conservative political party.
Morpheme Breakdown
con
serve
atism
con
serve
atism
Etymology
The word 'conservatism' is built on the Latin verb 'conservare', meaning "to keep, preserve, save". This verb itself is a compound of the intensive prefix 'con-' and 'servare' (to guard, watch over). The philosophical and political term emerged in early 19th-century Europe, notably following the French Revolution. It directly names the doctrine that emphasizes preserving ("keeping together") established traditions, institutions, and social stability against radical change. The suffix '-ism' systematizes this principle of preservation into a recognizable ideology.
Analysis
Structure: con + serve + atism
- con (Latin): A prefix meaning "together, with, thoroughly".
- serve (Latin): A root from 'servare', meaning "to keep, guard, preserve".
- atism (English): A compound suffix formed from -ate (verb-forming suffix) + -ism (noun-forming suffix denoting a practice, system, or doctrine).
Examples
His natural conservatism made him skeptical of the proposed social reforms.
The party's conservatism is reflected in its fiscal policies and emphasis on law and order.
There is a growing strand of environmental conservatism that seeks to preserve natural landscapes.