1. the political and moral movement to end slavery, especially in the United States during the 19th century
Usage: typically refers to the historical movement against slavery; often capitalized when referring to the specific historical movement
2. the principle or advocacy of abolishing a particular law, practice, or institution
Usage: broader modern usage beyond slavery

Examples

• Abolitionism gained strength in the Northern states during the early 1800s.
• Many religious leaders became prominent figures in the abolitionism movement.
• Frederick Douglass was a powerful voice for abolitionism and human rights.
• The abolitionism of capital punishment remains a controversial political issue.
• Harriet Beecher Stowe's novel helped fuel public support for abolitionism.
• Abolitionism challenged the economic and social foundations of the South.