Definition

A movement that encourages different Christian churches or religious groups to work together and understand each other better.

Example

The conference focused on ecumenism and how various faiths can collaborate for peace.

Conversation

Have you heard about the concept of ecumenism?

Yeah, I think it's about bringing different Christian groups together, right?

Exactly! It's all about fostering unity and understanding among various denominations.

That sounds like a positive movement; we could use more of that in the world.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ecumenism is formed from "oikoumene" (Greek, meaning the inhabited world) and the suffix "-ism" (meaning a doctrine or belief). The term refers to the movement aimed at promoting unity among different Christian denominations and, more broadly, among all religions, reflecting the idea of a united inhabited world.

Memory Tip

Imagine the concept of the 'inhabited world' ('oikoumene') coming together in unity, which is what ecumenism is all about.

Visually Confused Words