Mid 17th century; earliest use found in John Gauden (c1599–1662), bishop of Worcester. From presbyter + -ism. With sense 1 compare earlier Presbyterianism.
Definition of Presbyterism in US English:
Presbyterism
noun
Presbyterianism.
Origin
Mid 17th century; earliest use found in John Gauden (c1599–1662), bishop of Worcester. From presbyter + -ism. With sense 1 compare earlier Presbyterianism.