Definition

The general feeling, ideas, and beliefs that are popular in a particular time and place.

Example

The film captures the zeitgeist of the 1960s, reflecting the social changes of that era.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about the zeitgeist of our generation?

Yeah, it's fascinating how different it is from previous ones.

Exactly! The trends and values really reflect the times we live in.

Totally, I think art and music capture that spirit perfectly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Zeitgeist is a compound word from the German "Zeit" (meaning time) and "Geist" (meaning spirit or ghost). The term refers to the spirit or mood of a particular period in history as shown by the ideas and beliefs of the time.

Memory Tip

Think of 'time' ('Zeit') and 'spirit' ('Geist') together to remember that 'zeitgeist' means the spirit of the time.

Visually Confused Words