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Noun: ritualism  'ri-choo-u,li-zum
  1. Exaggerated emphasis on the importance of rites or ritualistic forms in worship
    "Some critics argue that excessive ritualism can overshadow the spiritual aspects of religion"; "The church's ritualism was evident in every aspect of the service"
     
  2. The study of religious or magical rites and ceremonies
    "His research in ritualism focused on ancient Egyptian burial practices"

Derived forms: ritualisms

Type of: cultural anthropology, pattern, practice, social anthropology

Encyclopedia: Ritualism