The word "Antimasonic" is spelled with a prefix "Anti-" which means "against" followed by "masonic" which refers to Freemasonry. The correct phonetic transcription for this word is /ˌæntiˈmeɪsɑnɪk/. The first syllable "anti-" is pronounced as /ˌænti/ with stress on the first vowel "a". The second syllable "ma-" is pronounced as /ˈmeɪ/ with the stress on the second vowel "e" and the third syllable "sonic" is pronounced as /sɑnɪk/ with the stress on the second vowel "a".
Antimasonic is an adjective that pertains to or is associated with antimasonry, which is a movement, ideology, or sentiment characterized by opposition or hostility towards Freemasonry or Masonic organizations.
Originating in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, antimasonry emerged as a social and political phenomenon particularly in the United States. It gained popularity amidst fervent concerns and conspiracy theories surrounding secret societies, rituals, and influence attributed to Freemasonry. Antimasonic sentiment often featured accusations of corruption, conspiracy, and clandestine activities.
An antimasonic stance is reflected in individuals, political parties, or organizations who actively oppose or campaign against Freemasonry. This can take various forms, including legislative efforts to restrict or ban Freemasonry, public speeches denouncing Masonic influence, or the formation of antimasonic political parties.
The term "antimasonic" can also describe publications, speeches, or actions that express criticism, skepticism, or a negative view towards Freemasonry. These sentiments may be driven by a distrust of secret societies, concerns about undue influence, or a perception that Masonic practices conflict with religious, political, or social norms.
While antimasonic sentiments have waned over time, especially in the Western world, antimasonry continues to exist in various degrees within certain religious, political, or social circles where skepticism or hostility towards Freemasonry persists.
The word "Antimasonic" is derived from a combination of two root words: "anti-" and "masonic".
1. "Anti-" is a prefix originating from the Greek word "anti", meaning "against" or "opposite". It is commonly used in English to indicate opposition, hostility, or opposition to something.
2. "Masonic" refers to the term "Masonry", which primarily refers to the fraternal organization called Freemasonry. Freemasonry is a secretive and exclusive society with its own rituals, symbols, and code of conduct.
Therefore, "Antimasonic" combines these two elements to mean opposition or hostility towards Freemasonry or anything associated with it. It is often used to describe individuals, groups, or movements that actively oppose Freemasonry or seek to expose its secret activities.