CultureAugust 30, 2026

hylomorphism

HY-loh-MOR-fiz-um

Definition

A philosophical doctrine that explains all natural objects as a combination of matter and a defining form, such as a soul.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'hyle' (matter) and 'morphe' (form), combined with the suffix '-ism' to denote a philosophical system or theory.

In the news

The article uses hylomorphism to defend the necessity of the body to human identity, arguing against transhumanist views that seek to separate the mind or soul from physical matter.

Mike Schramm: Are you guilty of fleshism?

Read the full article ↗

1819 News

Related words

aggrandizement

The act of increasing one's own power, wealth, status, or importance, often in an…

Culture

ajrakh

A traditional form of block-printing characterized by intricate geometric and floral…

Culture

arpeggios

The playing of the notes of a musical chord in rapid succession rather than…

Culture

bestiary

A descriptive or illustrative book or catalog that provides information about various…

Culture

calabash

A percussion instrument or vessel made from the dried, hollowed-out shell of a gourd…

Culture

caseback

The back cover of a wristwatch case, which protects the inner movement and can often be…

Culture

Learn words like this every day

Meet new words every morning.

Newspoken pulls carefully chosen words from the day’s news — with clear definitions, context, and light review that makes them stick. Get it on your phone.