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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.

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 19, 2025

Ulster Unionist councillor Darren Guy said those responsible were fuelled by "hate and sectarianism".

From BBC • Jul. 25, 2025

As for the issue once described as Scotland's shame - few would argue that sectarianism isn't alive and kicking inside Scottish football grounds in 2024.

From BBC • Mar. 12, 2024

Yet, analysts say many of Iraq's problems remain unresolved, ranging from its heavy dependence on oil revenues and the volatile global energy market to graft and sectarianism.

From Reuters • Jun. 16, 2023

"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

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.