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Militarism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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militarism

[ˈmɪlɪtərɪzəm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

political ideology

Militarism is a belief or desire of a government or people that a country should maintain a strong military capability and be prepared to use it aggressively to defend or promote national interests.

Synonyms

armament, belligerence, warmongering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
militarism

Describing a belief or desire that a country should maintain a strong military and be prepared to use it aggressively.

  • The government's policy of militarism has led to an increase in defense spending
  • The historical era was marked by rampant militarism
armament

Referring to weapons and military equipment collectively or the process of equipping for war.

  • The country increased its armament to prepare for potential conflicts
  • The arms race led to a significant buildup of armament
belligerence

Describing aggressive or warlike behavior. Often used in a negative sense.

  • His belligerence toward the neighboring countries caused tensions
  • The diplomat struggled to curb the belligerence in the negotiations
warmongering

Describing the practice of advocating for war or conflict, typically with negative connotations.

  • The leader's warmongering rhetoric alarmed other nations
  • Critics accused the administration of warmongering to distract from domestic issues

Examples of usage

  • The rise of militarism in the early 20th century led to increased tensions between nations.
  • The country's militarism was evident in its large military budget and aggressive foreign policy.
Context #2 | Noun

historical context

Militarism can also refer to the glorification of military virtues and ideals, often leading to a culture that prioritizes military solutions to problems.

Synonyms

militaristic culture, military glorification.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
militarism

Used in discussions about a system or policy where the military is given high importance in the government or society.

  • Some historians argue that militarism was one of the causes of World War I
  • The country's emphasis on militarism influenced its foreign policies
militaristic culture

Refers to a society or social environment where military values and practices are predominant and revered.

  • The militaristic culture in Sparta was evident in their rigorous training and warrior ethos
  • Many science fiction novels explore the consequences of a militaristic culture dominating space colonies
military glorification

Describes the act of idealizing or excessively praising the military and its actions, often used negatively to criticize undue emphasis on warlike values.

  • Critics argue that military glorification in the media does not show the full impact of war on soldiers and civilians
  • The parade was seen by some as an example of military glorification that overshadowed the need for diplomatic solutions

Examples of usage

  • The militarism of the ancient Spartans was legendary, with their society revolving around military training and discipline.
  • The rise of militarism in the country's history was marked by the construction of numerous war memorials and monuments.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The concept emerged prominently in Europe during the 19th century, particularly with the rise of powerful armies.
  • Countries like Prussia became known for their militaristic policies, influencing others in Europe.
  • Militarism significantly contributed to the tensions that led to World War I as countries built up their armies.

Political Context

  • Militarism often aligns with nationalism, where a strong military is seen as a source of national pride and identity.
  • Some regimes, especially totalitarian ones, use militarism to justify their authority and suppress opposition.
  • Countries with militaristic policies may prioritize defense spending over social welfare, affecting citizens' quality of life.

Cultural Representation

  • Militarism is commonly depicted in films and literature, romanticizing war and heroism around soldiers.
  • National holidays, such as Memorial Day, often showcase a nation's military pride and sacrifices made in war.
  • Pop culture sometimes critiques militarism, highlighting its consequences on society and individual lives.

Psychological Perspectives

  • Studies suggest that militarism can impact national identity, often fostering a sense of insecurity or fear.
  • Militaristic cultures may promote values such as discipline, loyalty, and sacrifice from a young age.
  • The normalization of militarism in society can create a desensitization to violence and conflict.

Global Impact

  • Militarism affects international relations, leading to arms races and conflicts between nations.
  • Many peace movements arise as a response to militaristic policies advocating for disarmament and dialogue.
  • Global organizations often intervene in militaristic disputes, promoting peace and stability through various means.

Origin of 'militarism'

The term 'militarism' originated in the mid-19th century and was initially used to describe the influence of military officers and institutions on politics and society. It gained prominence during periods of intense nationalism and imperial expansion, particularly in Europe. Militarism played a significant role in fueling conflicts such as World War I, where military build-up and aggressive foreign policies contributed to escalating tensions.

See also: militarized, nonmilitary, paramilitary.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,282, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.