1. Plural of modalism; philosophical or theological doctrines that emphasize modes, aspects, or forms of being or expression, particularly in relation to the nature of God or reality.
Usage: philosophy; theology; formal/academic
2. In music theory, systems or practices based on modes or modal scales.
Usage: music; technical

Examples

• Early Christian theologians debated various modalisms to explain the relationship between God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
• The philosopher's work examined different modalisms in metaphysics and their implications for understanding substance.
• Medieval scholars discussed modalisms as a way to reconcile divine unity with the doctrine of the Trinity.
• Jazz musicians often explore modalisms in their improvisations, moving beyond traditional harmonic structures.
• The text provides a comprehensive overview of modalisms in contemporary philosophy of language.