Minimalism: meaning, definitions and examples

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minimalism

 

[ ˈmɪnɪməˌlɪzəm ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

art

A style or technique that is characterized by extreme simplicity and a deliberate lack of decoration. Minimalism in art often involves the use of geometric shapes, monochromatic colors, and clean lines.

Synonyms

austerity, restraint, simplicity

Examples of usage

  • Her paintings are a perfect example of minimalism.
  • The museum is hosting an exhibit on minimalist art.
Context #2 | Noun

lifestyle

A lifestyle or philosophy that focuses on reducing excess material possessions and living a simpler, more purposeful life. Minimalism encourages mindfulness, intentional living, and a focus on experiences rather than things.

Synonyms

frugality, moderation, simplicity

Examples of usage

  • She embraced minimalism and decluttered her home.
  • The book explores the benefits of adopting a minimalist lifestyle.
Context #3 | Noun

music

A genre of music characterized by a stripped-down aesthetic, with a focus on repetition, subtle changes, and the use of silence as a compositional element. Minimalist music often features simple melodies and is known for its meditative quality.

Synonyms

austerity, restraint, sparcity

Examples of usage

  • The composer is known for his minimalist works.
  • This piece of music exemplifies the principles of minimalism.

Translations

Translations of the word "minimalism" in other languages:

🇵🇹 minimalismo

🇮🇳 मिनिमलिज़्म

🇩🇪 Minimalismus

🇮🇩 minimalisme

🇺🇦 мінімалізм

🇵🇱 minimalizm

🇯🇵 ミニマリズム

🇫🇷 minimalisme

🇪🇸 minimalismo

🇹🇷 minimalizm

🇰🇷 미니멀리즘

🇸🇦 التقليلية

🇨🇿 minimalismus

🇸🇰 minimalizmus

🇨🇳 极简主义

🇸🇮 minimalizem

🇮🇸 naumhyggja

🇰🇿 минимализм

🇬🇪 მინიმალიზმი

🇦🇿 minimalizm

🇲🇽 minimalismo

Etymology

The term 'minimalism' originated in the mid-20th century and was first used in the context of art to describe a style that focused on simplicity and reduction to essentials. It later expanded to encompass lifestyle choices and music genres. The philosophy behind minimalism is often linked to the rejection of consumerism and a desire for a more meaningful existence through the removal of excess. Minimalism continues to influence various aspects of culture and design in the modern world.

See also: minimalist, minimalistic.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,747 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.