counter-reformation: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal, Historical, Academic
Quick answer
What does “counter-reformation” mean?
The 16th- and 17th-century Roman Catholic movement of reform, defense, and response to the Protestant Reformation.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The 16th- and 17th-century Roman Catholic movement of reform, defense, and response to the Protestant Reformation.
Any major opposing movement or effort to reverse or counteract a previous reform or revolution.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling: UK prefers 'counter-reformation' with hyphen. US spelling may also be 'Counter Reformation' (open). Both treat it as a proper noun when historical. No significant difference in usage.
Connotations
Neutral historical term, though with implied context of religious conflict and institutional response. In broader use, can imply reactionary or defensive measures.
Frequency
Mostly encountered in historical, religious studies, or political science texts. Rare in everyday conversation in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “counter-reformation” in a Sentence
[The/This] Counter-Reformation [verb: was, led to, resulted in]...Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “counter-reformation” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- Counter-Reformation art is known for its dramatic emotionalism.
- The Counter-Reformation pope enacted strict reforms.
American English
- Counter-Reformation art is known for its dramatic emotionalism.
- The Counter-Reformation pope enacted strict reforms.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Academic
Frequent in history and theology. E.g., 'The Council of Trent was central to the Counter-Reformation.'
Everyday
Very rare. Might be used metaphorically in political or cultural discussions.
Technical
Specific to historical periodization and religious studies.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “counter-reformation”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “counter-reformation”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “counter-reformation”
- Misspelling as 'counterreformation' (no hyphen) or 'counter reformation' (open). Confusing it with the Protestant Reformation itself.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, when referring specifically to the historical period (proper noun). In metaphorical/extended uses, it is often not capitalised.
They are often used synonymously, but some scholars use 'Catholic Reformation' to emphasize internal renewal that began before Protestantism, and 'Counter-Reformation' to stress the reactive, defensive aspects.
Yes, but as a metaphorical or analogical term, e.g., 'The new leadership's policies amounted to a counter-reformation within the party.' It signals a major reversal of previous reforms.
The Society of Jesus (the Jesuits), founded by Ignatius of Loyola, was a major force in education, missionary work, and combating Protestantism during this period.
The 16th- and 17th-century Roman Catholic movement of reform, defense, and response to the Protestant Reformation.
Counter-reformation is usually formal, historical, academic in register.
Counter-reformation: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkaʊntə refəˈmeɪʃ(ə)n/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkaʊnt̬ər ˌrefərˈmeɪʃ(ə)n/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: COUNTER (against) + REFORMATION. It was the Catholic Church's movement to counter the Protestant Reformation.
Conceptual Metaphor
A TIDAL WAVE MEETING A SEA WALL (a major force meeting an opposing, structural response).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'counter-reformation' most precisely used?