societal

adjective

so·​ci·​e·​tal sə-ˈsī-ə-tᵊl How to pronounce societal (audio)
: of or relating to society : social
societal forces
societally adverb

Examples of societal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Reflection and Commentary By reflecting on memories through a combination of nostalgic ocean art and Western art and engaging the viewer by commenting on societal issues and environmental concerns, Nathan’s work demonstrates significant appeal. Matt Emma, USA Today, 21 Apr. 2025 Using my scholarly window into the world, societal advancement and robustness of public support for research will increasingly depend on improving scientific literacy. Marshall Shepherd, Forbes.com, 19 Apr. 2025 Then, there’s the societal pressure to spend money on dates as a sign of financial security and responsibility. Myisha Battle, Time, 18 Apr. 2025 But housing prices have risen far faster than supply as a combination of low pandemic interest rates and societal changes fueled a historic increase in housing costs. Sylvan Lane, The Hill, 17 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for societal

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of societal was in 1890

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Cite this Entry

“Societal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/societal. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.

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