know-nothingism


know–noth·ing·ism

noun \-thiŋ-ˌi-zəm\

Definition of KNOW-NOTHINGISM

1
capitalized K&N : the principles and policies of the Know-Nothings
2
: the condition of knowing nothing or desiring to know nothing or the conviction that nothing can be known with certainty especially in religion or morality
3
often capitalized K&N : a mid-20th century political attitude characterized by anti-intellectualism, exaggerated patriotism, and fear of foreign subversive influences

First Known Use of KNOW-NOTHINGISM

1854

Rhymes with KNOW-NOTHINGISM

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