1. a condition in which society provides little moral guidance to individuals
Usage: sociology
2. personal unrest, alienation, and uncertainty that comes from a lack of purpose or ideals

Examples

• The rapid social changes led to widespread anomie in the community.
• Durkheim studied anomie as a factor in suicide rates.
• Many young people experience anomie when traditional values are questioned.
• The economic crisis created a sense of anomie among workers.
• Urban anomie can result from the breakdown of social bonds.
• The novel explores themes of modern anomie and isolation.