1. the theory that social and cultural phenomena are determined by history and can only be understood in their historical context
Usage: philosophy; academic
2. an architectural style that imitates or revives historical styles from the past
Usage: architecture
3. excessive regard for or adherence to historical precedent

Examples

• The philosopher rejected historicism, arguing that universal truths exist beyond historical context.
• Historicism dominated 19th-century architecture with its Gothic and Classical revivals.
• Critics accused the court of historicism in its strict adherence to original constitutional interpretations.
• The university’s historicism approach emphasized studying literature within its historical period.
• Victorian historicism produced buildings that mimicked medieval cathedrals and Greek temples.
• Some scholars argue that historicism limits our ability to make moral judgments across cultures.
• The architect abandoned historicism in favor of contemporary design principles.