1. Plural of historicism: the theory that historical events are determined by underlying historical forces rather than by individual agency, or the belief that all phenomena are products of their historical context.
Usage: academic; philosophy; literary criticism
2. Plural of historicism: excessive emphasis on historical method or historical explanation; the tendency to interpret all phenomena primarily through historical analysis.
Usage: academic; criticism
3. Plural of historicism: in architecture and art, the practice of reviving or imitating historical styles.
Usage: architecture; art history

Examples

• Different historicisms have shaped how scholars interpret medieval literature.
• The architect rejected various historicisms in favor of a contemporary design.
• Marxist historicisms emphasize economic forces as drivers of social change.
• Literary critics debate whether historicisms adequately account for individual creativity.
• The museum's collection reflects multiple historicisms from different periods of restoration.
• Some philosophers challenge the determinism inherent in certain historicisms.