totemistic

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Relating to totemism: "totemistic" describes beliefs, practices, or social systems based on totemism, which involves a symbolic relationship between a group (such as a clan) and a natural object, animal, or plant (the totem), often serving as an emblem or spiritual guide.
Usage Examples
  • (The rituals were associated with the belief system of totemism.)
  • (Societies that practice totemism are examined for their symbolic relationships.)
Advanced Usage

  • "totemistic worldview": a perspective in which nature and society are interconnected through symbolic totems.

    • The totemistic worldview sees the bear not just as an animal, but as a spiritual ancestor of the clan. (The bear is viewed within a totemistic framework as a sacred symbol.)

  • "totemistic symbolism": the use of totems as meaningful symbols in culture or art.

    • The carvings on the pole display rich totemistic symbolism, representing the clan's history. (The symbols are derived from totemistic beliefs.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Totem (n): a natural object or animal that is believed by a particular society to have spiritual significance and that is adopted by a group as an emblem.

    • The wolf is the totem of the hunting clan. (The wolf is their symbolic animal.)

  • Totemism (n): the system of belief in totems, often involving social organization and rituals.

    • Totemism is common among many Indigenous cultures around the world. (The belief system is widespread.)

  • Totemic (adj): another form of "totemistic," meaning relating to or serving as a totem.

    • The totemic pole stood at the centre of the village. (The pole was a symbol of the totem.)
Synonyms
  • Symbolic: relating to or using symbols.
  • Emblematic: serving as a symbol of a particular quality or concept.
  • Clannish: relating to a clan or group, often with symbolic ties.
Related Idioms

  • To follow a totem: to adhere to the customs and symbols of a totemistic group.

    • They follow the totem of the raven, respecting its role in their culture. (They observe totemistic practices.)

  • A totem of unity: a symbol that brings a group together.

    • The sacred tree served as a totem of unity for the entire tribe. (It was a totemistic symbol of cohesion.)