Definition

Noun: 1. An ideology or belief system asserting the superiority of one particular group over all others: This belief holds that a specific group—often defined by race, ethnicity, gender, or religion—is inherently superior and should dominate other groups. It is the foundational principle for systems of discrimination and oppression.

Usage

Supremacism is primarily used as a non-count noun to describe an abstract ideology or belief system. It is most commonly modified by an adjective specifying the group claimed to be superior (e.g., white supremacism, male supremacism).

Examples

• The core tenet of supremacism is the dangerous and false idea of inherent group superiority.
• The regime's policies were rooted in ethnic supremacism.
• Scholars analyze how supremacism functions to justify social and political hierarchies.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used in compound forms where the modifying word specifies the group. For example:
  • Racial supremacism was the official doctrine of the state.
  • The movement opposed all forms of religious supremacism.

Variants and Related Words

• Supremacist (noun): A person who advocates for or believes in supremacism.
  • He was identified as a white supremacist.
• Supremacist (adjective): Relating to or characteristic of supremacism.
  • The group promoted supremacist ideologies.

Synonyms

• Dominance ideology
• Hegemonism (in a specific ideological context)
• Chauvinism (especially when referring to aggressive patriotism or male chauvinism)

Antonyms

• Egalitarianism
• Pluralism
• Multiculturalism

Related Phrases and Concepts

• White supremacy: The specific ideology that white people are superior to people of other races.
• Male supremacy (or male chauvinism): The belief that men are superior to women.
• To espouse supremacism: To adopt or support supremacist beliefs.
• A doctrine of supremacism: A formalized system of supremacist principles.

Noun

1. the belief that some particular group or race is superior to all others
   • white supremacism