vitalism noun. ['vʌɪt(ǝ)lɪz(ǝ)m] E19.
[French vitalisme, or from VITAL adjective + -ISM.]
Biology. The doctrine or theory that the origin and phenomena of life are due to or produced by a vital principle, as distinct from a purely chemical or physical force.

■ vitalist noun & adjective (a) noun an advocate of or believer in vitalism; (b) adjective = VITALISTIC: M19.

[TahlilGaran] English Dictionary ▲