totemism

[ˈtoʊtəmɪzəm]

totemism Definition

• 1. the belief in kinship with or a mystical relationship between a group or an individual and a totem
• 2. a system of tribal organization according to totems

Using totemism: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "totemism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The totemism of some indigenous cultures is fascinating.

• Example

  Totemism is an important aspect of many Native American religions.

• Example

  The totemism of the tribe was central to their way of life.

Phrases with totemism

• clan totemism

  a type of totemism where the totem is associated with a clan or family

  Example

  Clan totemism is common among many indigenous cultures.

• individual totemism

  a type of totemism where the totem is associated with an individual

  Example

  Individual totemism is less common than clan totemism.

• totemic animal

  an animal that is believed to have a special relationship with a particular group or individual

  Example

  The wolf is a totemic animal for many Native American tribes.

Origins of totemism

from Ojibwe 'odoodem', meaning 'his kinship group'

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Summary: totemism in Brief

Totemism [ˈtoʊtəmɪzəm] is a belief system that involves a mystical relationship between a group or individual and a totem. It can also refer to a system of tribal organization based on totems. Examples of its use include 'The totemism of some indigenous cultures is fascinating.' and 'Totemism is an important aspect of many Native American religions.'