1. belief in or expectation of a messiah who will deliver or save people
Usage: religious
2. zealous devotion to a cause or belief that one can save or reform society
Usage: often political or social

Examples

• The community’s messianism sustained them through difficult times.
• Jewish messianism has influenced many religious movements throughout history.
• His political messianism led him to believe he could single-handedly reform the system.
• The revolutionary’s messianism inspired both followers and critics.
• Christian messianism centers on the belief in Jesus as the promised savior.
• Her environmental messianism drove her to extreme activism.
• The cult leader’s messianism attracted desperate followers seeking salvation.