Germanophilism

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Strong admiration, affection or preference for Germany, its people, language and culture
2. An enthusiastic liking for German customs, traditions and national character, often shown by favouring things German
3. Deep fondness for the German nation and its achievements, along with a tendency to prefer its ways and influence

Etymology: Germanophilism is a fairly transparent formation: "Germano-", combining form of "German", plus "-philism", from "philo-" (loving) and the noun-forming suffix "-ism". Put together it means a fondness for Germany, its people, language or culture. The "-phile" and "-philia" family, built on Greek "philos" (friend, loving), supplied the model, and the word follows the pattern of "Anglophilism" and "Francophilism." The word belongs to the era when nationalist and political feelings about Germany were sharp. Its use surged around the time of the First World War, when people who admired German learning, music or industry were often viewed with suspicion. English had long used "Germanophile" as a noun for such a person, and the abstract "-ism" form followed as a way of naming the attitude itself. The term is a coinage from known parts rather than a survival from older English, so its story is mainly one of pattern and context. Its meaning stays close to its roots: love of the German.

Synonyms: germanophilia

Antonyms: germanophobia