English · Culture & Society
civilization
/ˌsɪv.ɪ.lɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/
[/ˌsɪv.ɪ.lɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/]
advanced human society
Definition
A complex society marked by cities, government, writing, and cultural development. It often refers to a particular stage or form of human social organization.
Example
The ancient Egyptian civilization built remarkable pyramids that still amaze visitors thousands of years later.
The ancient Egyptian civilization built remarkable pyramids that still amaze visitors thousands of years later.
Etymology
From French 'civilisation', from Latin 'civilis' (relating to citizens), from 'civis' (citizen).
How & Where It’s Used
Used in history, anthropology, and everyday discussion of human cultural achievement.
Cultural Note
The word often carries assumptions about which societies count as 'advanced', a point scholars now question.