Maoism

noun

Mao·​ism ˈmau̇-ˌi-zəm How to pronounce Maoism (audio)
: the theory and practice of Marxism-Leninism developed in China chiefly by Mao Zedong
Maoist
ˈmau̇-ist How to pronounce Maoism (audio)
noun or adjective

Examples of Maoism in a Sentence

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Politically or electorally speaking, Maoism could hardly be less relevant in this day and age—no one wants egalitarian totalitarianism anymore than (most) people want fascism. — Kieran Press-Reynolds, Pitchfork, 24 Oct. 2025 Mao’s Reversal And The Ruin of Chinese Research In China, Maoism led to major setbacks for science during the Great Leap Forward and, especially, the Cultural Revolution. — Scott Montgomery, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025 Derek Thompson: The disturbing rise of MAGA Maoism The Chinese leader has even managed to turn the trade war to his political advantage. — Michael Schuman, The Atlantic, 8 May 2025 But Maoism seemed to fit a 1960s moment, when wealthy and developing countries alike were exploding in revolution against their existing systems. — Rana Mitter, Foreign Affairs, 22 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for Maoism

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Maoism was in 1950

Rhymes for Maoism

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Browse Nearby Words

MAOI
Maoism
Maoke Mountains
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Cite this Entry

“Maoism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Maoism. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on Maoism

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Maoism

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