Communism, n.
Etymology: [F. communisme, fr. commun common.]
A scheme of equalizing the social conditions of life; specifically, a scheme which contemplates the abolition of inequalities in the possession of property, as by distributing all wealth equally to all, or by holding all wealth in common for the equal use and advantage of all.
Note: At different times, and in different countries, various schemes pertaining to socialism in government and the conditions of domestic life, as well as in the distribution of wealth, have been called communism.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for communism; he lists it under socialism.
Where he writes about it:
Communism would divide all things, including the profits of individual labor, among members of the community; many of its advocates would abolish marriage and the family relation. — from socialism
Synonyms
Antonyms
none given