CultureAugust 29, 2026

collectivist

kuh-LEK-tiv-ist

Definition

Relating to a political or social system that prioritizes the interests and control of the group or community over individual rights and autonomy.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'collectus', the past participle of 'colligere' (to gather together), the term emerged in the 19th century to describe social theories emphasizing group ownership and communal organization.

In the news

The film depicts a world under a collectivist Cold War regime, which creates conflict for the protagonist regarding her personal choices and sense of identity.

‘The Alice Paradox’ review: Dir. William Brooke [FrightFest 2026]

Read the full article ↗

The Hollywood News

Related words

byword

A person or thing that is so well-known as a prominent or typical example of a particular…

Culture

dwarfism

A condition characterized by growth that is significantly below the average height, often…

Culture

evangelization

The act of spreading or preaching the Christian gospel or mission, particularly within…

Culture

foodways

The cultural, social, and economic practices relating to the production, preparation, and…

Culture

humanization

The process of adapting or directing digital technologies so that they prioritize human…

Culture

kitsch

Art, objects, or design considered to be in poor taste because of excessive…

Culture

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.