| Noun | 1. | formalism - the doctrine that formal structure rather than content is what should be representedimitation - the doctrine that representations of nature or human behavior should be accurate imitations | |
| 2. | formalism - (philosophy) the philosophical theory that formal (logical or mathematical) statements have no meaning but that its symbols (regarded as physical entities) exhibit a form that has useful applicationsphilosophy - the rational investigation of questions about existence and knowledge and ethics | |
| 3. | formalism - the practice of scrupulous adherence to prescribed or external formspractice, pattern - a customary way of operation or behavior; "it is their practice to give annual raises"; "they changed their dietary pattern" | |