sectionalism

[ sek-shuh-nl-iz-uhm ]

noun

1. excessive regard for sectional or local interests; regional or local spirit, prejudice, etc.

sectionalism

/ ˈsɛkʃənəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. excessive or narrow-minded concern for local or regional interests as opposed to the interests of the whole

Derived Forms

• ˈsectionalist, nounadjective

Other Words From

• section·al·ist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of sectionalism¹

An Americanism dating back to 1850–55; sectional + -ism

Example Sentences

Even in the cemeteries, however, sectionalism trumped mourning.

From The Daily Beast

There was so much sectionalism bitter with political and economic rivalries at the conference that it was unsuccessful.

From Project Gutenberg

The new larger districts were calculated to do away with some of the evils of sectionalism which had previously been unavoidable.

From Project Gutenberg

The Southern press is ever complaining of the sectionalism of the North.

From Project Gutenberg

Enough of these survived in the days of Cleveland and McKinley to keep sectionalism alive.

From Project Gutenberg

Genuine loyalty cannot agree with exclusive and rampant sectionalism, with local, racial or religious prejudices and fanaticism.

From Project Gutenberg