totemism

[ toh-tuh-miz-uh m ]
/ ˈtoʊ təˌmɪz əm /

noun

the practice of having totems.
the system of tribal division according to totems.

Origin of totemism

An Americanism dating back to 1785–95; totem + -ism

OTHER WORDS FROM totemism

to·tem·is·tic, adjective

Words nearby totemism

tote board, tote box, tote road, totem, totem pole, totemism, totemist, totemite, totes, tother, toti-

Example sentences from the Web for totemism

British Dictionary definitions for totemism

totemism
/ (ˈtəʊtəˌmɪzəm) /

noun

the belief in kinship of groups or individuals having a common totem
the rituals, taboos, and other practices associated with such a belief

Derived forms of totemism

totemist, noun totemistic, adjective

Cultural definitions for totemism

totemism
[ (toh-tuh-miz-uhm) ]

The belief that people are descended from animals, plants, and other natural objects. Symbols (see also symbol) of these natural ancestors, known as totems, are often associated with clans (groups of families tracing common descent). By representing desirable individual qualities (such as the swiftness of a deer) and helping to explain the mythical origin of the clan, totems reinforce clan identity and solidarity.