parochialism

[puh-roh-kee-uh-liz-uhm]

noun

1. a parochial character, spirit, or tendency; excessive narrowness of interests or view; provincialism.

Other Word Forms

• parochialist noun
• parochialization noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of parochialism¹

First recorded in 1840–50; parochial + -ism

Example Sentences

“I don’t think the problem is specific to finance. I think that parochialism is common to modern intellectual life. There is no attempt to integrate.”

Read more on Literature

Yet even in his parochialism, Jefferson's broad-mindedness remained apparent.

Read more on Salon

In domestic terms, Celtic are good enough to win a fourth title in a row just as they are, but parochialism is the enemy of progress.

Read more on BBC

“There are parochialisms that are in play in a presidential contest that you don’t experience in a state contest,” Sipple said.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

In part that reflects a “parochialism” among the countries building the instruments, says Jacob, who laments what will be missed.

Read more on Science Magazine