protectionism

[pruh-tek-shuh-niz-uhm]

noun

1. Economics.,  the theory, practice, or system of fostering or developing domestic industries by protecting them from foreign competition through duties or quotas imposed on importations.

2. any program, policy, or system of laws that seeks to provide protection for property owners, wildlife, the environment, etc.

Other Word Forms

• protectionist noun
• protectionistic adjective
• antiprotectionist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of protectionism¹

First recorded in 1855–60; protection + -ism

Example Sentences

In this way, protectionism opens the door to another feature of Latin American politics, clientism.

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Investors more often than not fail to appreciate Aghion’s insight, since the diminution in future economic growth that results from protectionism only manifests itself over the longer term.

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Prolonged uncertainty, more protectionism, and labor supply shocks could reduce growth.

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If bank deposits are a public good worthy of protectionism, banks shouldn’t be allowed to earn excess profits off of them.

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American protectionism, many believe, not only will dim the economic prospects of American partners; it will enhance the appeal of China as a partner for investment and trade.

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