SYNCRETISM

syncretism

(noun) the fusion of originally different inflected forms (resulting in a reduction in the use of inflections)

syncretism

(noun) the union (or attempted fusion) of different systems of thought or belief (especially in religion or philosophy); “a syncretism of material and immaterial theories”

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology

Noun

syncretism (countable and uncountable, plural syncretisms)

(religion) The (attempted) reconciliation or fusion of different systems or beliefs.

(linguistics) The fusion of different inflexional forms.

Source: Wiktionary

Syn"cre*tism, n. Etym: [Gr. syncrétisme.]

Definition: Attempted union of principles or parties irreconcilably at variance with each other. He is plotting a carnal syncretism, and attempting the reconcilement of Christ and Belial. Baxter. Syncretism is opposed to eclecticism in philosophy. Krauth-Fleming.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition