# fundamentalism

/ˌfəndəˈmɛnəˌɫɪzəm/ (US) · /fˌʌndəmˈɛntəlˌɪzəm/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fundamentalism
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a strict belief in the basic rules or principles of a group, especially a religious one. It often means following those rules in a very strict and traditional way.

For teachers: a strict adherence to the basic principles of a religion, political ideology, or system. Often implies a literal interpretation of sacred texts or a rigid commitment to traditional practices.

## Examples

- The rise of religious fundamentalism has changed the country's laws.
- The political party's platform is based on economic fundamentalism, rejecting any government intervention in the free market.
- Scholars often debate whether the resurgence of religious fundamentalism is a reaction to modernization or a return to a perceived golden age of purity and tradition.

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