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Synonyms

sectarianism

American  
[sek-tair-ee-uh-niz-uhm] / sɛkˈtɛər i əˌnɪz əm /

noun

  1. sectarian spirit or tendencies; excessive devotion to a particular sect, especially in religion.


Etymology

Origin of sectarianism

First recorded in 1810–20; sectarian + -ism


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Iraq still faces many challenges, not least sectarianism, paramilitaries and Iranian meddling.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 19, 2025

"Yet, these actions fuelled by hate and sectarianism continue, unchallenged, from their own elected representatives," he said.

From BBC ● Jul. 25, 2025

And when a reporter like Sexton does enter the picture, sectarianism makes his job more difficult.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 9, 2023

An MP has said recent incidents of "casual sectarianism" show that Northern Ireland has not done enough to build reconciliation and integration.

From BBC ● Aug. 15, 2022

"You see," Brother Jack said with a grin, "we've always avoided these leaders, but the moment we start to advance on a broad front, sectarianism becomes a burden to be cast off. Any other suggestions?"

From "Invisible Man" by Ralph Ellison

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