Synonyms for

Civilization

Verb / ˌsɪvʌlɪˈzeɪʃʌn / Another word for civilization — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a society that has a high level of culture, science, industry, and government

Synonyms & similar words

refinement civilisation culture culture society advancement development progress sophistication refinement enlightenment achievement improvement modernization industrialization urbanization globalization metropolitanism cosmopolitanism worldliness polish education knowledge

Synonyms by register

Formal

society culture humanity polity

Informal

the good life organized society advanced living

Literary

enlightenment progress advancement

Antonyms

barbarism savagery primitivism wildness chaos anarchy

Common collocations

  • ancient civilization
  • modern civilization
  • Western civilization
  • human civilization
  • rise of civilization
  • fall of civilization
  • early civilization

Word family

noun civilization
adjective civilized

Usage note

Refers to a complex society characterized by urban development, social stratification, and symbolic communication. It is often contrasted with 'barbarism' or 'savagery'.

Example sentences

  1. The Mayan civilization was known for its amazing temples and pyramids.
  2. Many people believe that ancient civilizations were visited by aliens.
  3. The invention of the wheel was a huge advancement for early civilizations.
  4. The people of this civilization were known for their excellent metalworking skills.
  5. The fall of the Roman civilization was a major turning point in history.

Quotes

  • The true civilization is where every man gives to every other every right that he claims for himself.
  • Civilization is the progress toward a society of privacy.
  • Civilization is the lamb's skin in which barbarism masquerades.

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