sikhism: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Academic, Neutral
Quick answer
What does “sikhism” mean?
A monotheistic religion founded in the Punjab region of South Asia in the 15th century, based on the teachings of Guru Nanak and the ten successive Sikh Gurus.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A monotheistic religion founded in the Punjab region of South Asia in the 15th century, based on the teachings of Guru Nanak and the ten successive Sikh Gurus.
The religious tradition, philosophical system, ethical code, and way of life practiced by followers of the Sikh faith, characterized by belief in one God, rejection of caste, equality of all humans, honest labor, community service (seva), and defense of the oppressed. It includes the spiritual authority of the Guru Granth Sahib and the physical community of the Khalsa.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. British English is more likely to encounter the term in general discourse due to larger Sikh diaspora populations.
Connotations
Neutral. Carries connotations of peace, community service (langar), and distinct identity (the Five Ks).
Frequency
Higher frequency in British English in news, education, and social contexts; lower general frequency in American English outside academic or specific community discussions.
Grammar
How to Use “sikhism” in a Sentence
[Subject] studies/practises/follows Sikhism.Sikhism is [verb, e.g., based on, centred around] the Guru Granth Sahib.Sikhism teaches/emphasises/believes in [concept].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “sikhism” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Many families in Southall have Sikhism as their core faith.
American English
- He chose to Sikhism after years of spiritual searching.
adjective
British English
- The Sikhism community centre organised a large parade for Vaisakhi.
American English
- She is an expert in Sikhism theology and history.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in diversity training or discussions of religious holidays in the workplace.
Academic
Common in Religious Studies, History, Sociology, and Anthropology contexts.
Everyday
Used in discussions about religion, culture, identity, and world affairs.
Technical
Used in theological texts and historical analyses of religious movements in South Asia.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “sikhism”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “sikhism”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “sikhism”
- Misspelling as 'Sikism', 'Sickism', or 'Shikhism'.
- Incorrectly using lowercase ('sikhism').
- Using 'Sikhism' to refer to a single person (should be 'a Sikh').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The main symbol is the Khanda, which consists of a double-edged sword (khanda) in the centre, a circular throwing weapon (chakkar), and two single-edged swords (kirpans) crossed at the bottom.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469-1539) is revered as the founder and first Guru of Sikhism.
A Sikh place of worship is called a Gurdwara, which means 'the doorway to the Guru'.
Sikhism does not emphasise ritual pilgrimage. The Gurus taught that pilgrimage to physical places is less important than inward devotion and good deeds. However, the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in Amritsar is a central spiritual and historical site.
A monotheistic religion founded in the Punjab region of South Asia in the 15th century, based on the teachings of Guru Nanak and the ten successive Sikh Gurus.
Sikhism is usually formal, academic, neutral in register.
Sikhism: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsiːkɪz(ə)m/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsikɪzəm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'SEEK wisdom' in Sikhism. The religion 'seeks' truth and justice.
Conceptual Metaphor
RELIGION IS A PATH/JOURNEY (e.g., 'the path of Sikhism').
Practice
Quiz
Sikhism was founded primarily in which region?