[f. as prec. + -ISM.] A theory that seeks to explain physiological or pathological phenomena by the agency of animalcules, as (1) that they are the germs of life, (2) that they are the cause of diseases.
[1751. Chambers, Cycl., s.v. Animalcule, The system of generation ab animalculo.]
1874. Dunglison, Med. Dict., Animalculism, Spermatism.
1880. in Syd. Soc. Lex.
