Another Word For Zeitgeist

Meaning

The word "zeitgeist" refers to the spirit or mood of a particular period in history, especially as expressed in literature, philosophy, or the arts. It embodies the ideas, beliefs, and cultural tendencies that characterize a specific time, reflecting the collective consciousness of a society during that time.

Synonyms

• Spirit of the age
• Mood of the times
• Cultural climate
• Intellectual climate
• Ethos

Antonyms

• Timelessness
• Anachronism
• Obsolescence
• Irrelevance

Etymology

The term "zeitgeist" is derived from the German words "Zeit" meaning "time" and "Geist" meaning "spirit" or "ghost." It literally translates to "spirit of the time." The concept has been influential in philosophy and cultural studies since it appeared in German Romanticism.

Examples

1. The film captures the zeitgeist of the 1960s, reflecting the societal changes and counterculture movements of that era.
2. Artists often draw inspiration from the zeitgeist to create works that resonate with contemporary audiences.
3. Understanding the zeitgeist of a historical period can provide valuable insights into the social and political issues of the time.