# creationism

/kɹiˈeɪʃəˌnɪzəm/ (US) · /kɹiːˈeɪʃənˌɪzəm/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/creationism
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

the belief that the universe and living things were created by a god or gods. It is often used to describe the idea that life on Earth was not formed by natural processes but by a divine act.

For teachers: the belief that the universe and living organisms originate from specific acts of divine creation. Often contrasted with evolutionary theory in the context of scientific and religious debates.

## Examples

- The school board debated whether to teach creationism in science class.
- The museum exhibit explores the historical conflict between creationism and the scientific evidence for biological evolution.
- While creationism remains a significant cultural and religious movement, the scientific community overwhelmingly supports the theory of evolution as the primary explanation for the diversity of life on Earth.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.