1. Plural of mercantilism; economic systems or policies based on the belief that a nation's wealth comes from accumulating precious metals and maintaining a favorable balance of trade.
Usage: Usually used in historical or comparative contexts when discussing multiple economic systems or theories.

Examples

• European mercantilisms of the 17th and 18th centuries emphasized colonial expansion and trade monopolies.
• Historians compare different mercantilisms across nations to understand early modern economic policy.
• The mercantilisms practiced by Spain and England both sought to maximize gold reserves.
• Modern economists critique the mercantilisms of the past for restricting international commerce.
• Various mercantilisms emerged as competing powers tried to dominate global trade routes.