anarchism

noun

Definition of anarchismnext
as in anarchy
a situation of confused and wild behavior in which the people in a country, group, organization, etc., are not controlled by rules or laws

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of anarchism This tumult gave rise to the political philosophies of communism and anarchism, as well as the early labor movement. — Marco Quiroz-Gutierrez, Fortune, 14 Apr. 2026 His political ideals were rooted in variants of anarchism, aspiring to a stateless society where communities organized themselves on principles like liberty, solidarity and equality. — Sal Rodriguez, Oc Register, 8 Dec. 2025 Her anarchism was part of the Edinburgh Character and her conservatism rooted in respect for order, authority and ritual. — Frances Wilson september 23, Literary Hub, 23 Sep. 2025 The ideologies of antifa adherents are based on various left-wing causes, including communism, anarchism and socialism, while many also support environmentalism, the rights of indigenous populations and LGBTQ+ rights. — Robert Birsel, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for anarchism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for anarchism
  1. anarchy
  2. commotion
Noun
  • After that, Afghanistan descended into anarchy, with bands of warlords grabbing turf, loot, women, and boys.
    — Dexter Filkins, New Yorker, 14 Oct. 2026
  • In the bleak postapocalyptic landscape of Volume III, the governments of the planet have failed to work together to contain the contagion, leading to the breakdown of societies, civil war and anarchy.
    — Eileen Hunt, Fortune, 28 Sep. 2026
Definition of anarchy
Noun
  • In the commotion, she was briefly separated from her 85-year-old mother, who lives with her.
    — Tony Briscoe, Los Angeles Times, 17 Oct. 2026
  • That allowed passengers to hear the commotion and discover what was happening.
    — Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 15 Oct. 2026
Definition of commotion

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Cite this Entry

“Anarchism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/anarchism. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on anarchism

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about anarchism

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