liberalism Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a political orientation that favors social progress by reform and by changing laws rather than by revolution
  2. noun an economic theory advocating free competition and a self-regulating market

WordNet


Lib"er*al*ism noun
Etymology
Cf. F. libéralisme.
Definitions
  1. Liberal principles; the principles and methods of the liberals in politics or religion; specifically, the principles of the Liberal party.

Webster 1913