suffixes - What is the history and meaning of the suffix "-ism"?


I have always understood that an "-ism" suffix on something implies that the word being applied to is a belief or doctrinal worldview or otherwise a philosophy.


This blogpost sums up that perspective: http://blogs.transparent.com/english/what-is-an-%E2%80%93ism/


Examples: Conservatism, liberalism, anarchism, Globalism, fatalism, hedonism


The odd duck is the word "magnetism" which (can mean) a physical force rather than a doctrine or belief or philosophy. How does this word fit in? Is it an exception to the rule?


The online etymology dictionary (is it considered definitive by the academics?) has an entry on -ism that is a little broader and includes "action, state, condition."


I suppose what I am asking is: briefly what is the history of -ism and what does it properly represent on words today?




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