exoticism
UK[ɪɡˈzɒtɪsɪzəm]US[ɪɡˈzɑːtɪsɪzəm]
n
the quality of being strikingly, excitingly, or mysteriously different or unusual, often because of associations with distant foreign countries.
n
(in art and literature) the use of styles, motifs, or subjects considered characteristic of distant foreign cultures.
Morpheme Breakdown
exotic
ism
exotic
foreign
ism
doctrine, practice
Etymology
the word exoticism is a modern construction, entering english in the early 19th century by combining the existing adjective 'exotic' with the noun-forming suffix '-ism'. its core component, 'exotic', traces back to the greek exōtikos, derived from exō, meaning 'outside'. this root establishes the fundamental concept of being external or originating from beyond one's own familiar boundaries. the suffix '-ism', also of greek origin, transforms this adjectival concept into an abstract noun denoting a practice, style, or quality. thus, exoticism logically evolved from its literal greek components meaning 'the state of being from outside' to signify the artistic and cultural fascination with, or characteristic quality of, the perceived foreign, distant, and unfamiliar.
Analysis
Structure: exotic (foreign) + ism (doctrine, practice)
exotic: from latin exoticus, from greek exōtikos, meaning 'foreign', from exō 'outside'. functions as the core adjective/adjectival root meaning 'from outside, foreign'.
ism: from greek -ismos, a suffix forming nouns of action, state, condition, or doctrine. functions as a noun-forming suffix indicating a practice, system, or characteristic quality.
Examples
the novel is filled with exoticism, describing lush jungles and ancient customs unknown to its western readers.
his music incorporates elements of exoticism through the use of unusual scales and instruments from asia.
some critics argue that the film's portrayal of the region relies too heavily on romantic exoticism rather than realism.