Syncretic
/sɪŋˈkrɛtɪk/noun
Relating to the combination or fusion of different beliefs, ideas, or traditions.
Did you know?The Greek root behind syncretic, synkretismos, was originally linked to Cretan unity in the face of danger, not mystical blending—an ancient political word that later became a term for merging religions and philosophies.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
synkretismos
“A Cretan alliance or union, especially a temporary joining together”
Late Greek
Greek
synkretizein
“To combine or reconcile different elements”
16th Century
Latin
syncretismus
“A combining or blending of doctrines, especially religious ones”
17th Century
English
syncretism
“The attempted union of different beliefs or schools of thought”
Modern English
English
syncretic
“Characterized by the combination of different traditions or ideas”
Explore more surprising origins