Definition

A belief system that rejects the idea that material possessions and physical wealth are the most important aspects of life.

Example

Many people turn to antimaterialism as a way to find deeper meaning beyond material wealth.

Conversation

I've been reading about antimaterialism lately, and it's really interesting.

Oh really? What does it focus on?

It challenges the idea that material possessions are the key to happiness.

That makes sense; I think a lot of people could benefit from that perspective.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Antimaterialism is formed from "anti-" (meaning against) and "materialism" (from Latin "materialis", meaning pertaining to matter, and "-ism", a suffix denoting a doctrine or belief). The term refers to a belief system that opposes the idea that material possessions and physical matter are the primary or most important aspects of life.

Memory Tip

Think of 'anti-' meaning against, and 'materialism' referring to the belief in the importance of material things. This helps you remember that antimaterialism is the belief against the emphasis on material possessions.

Visually Confused Words