tribalism

noun

trib·​al·​ism ˈtrī-bə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce tribalism (audio)
1
: tribal consciousness and loyalty
especially : exaltation of the tribe above other groups
2
: strong in-group loyalty

Examples of tribalism in a Sentence

Tribalism within the group is strong. the corrupting influence of tribalism
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
If, instead, the election is close, existing trends will likely bring out the worst in America—our puritanical righteousness and tribalism. Chris Jackson, Fortune, 4 Nov. 2024 While community is a positive force, tribalism is its polar negative opposite. Dan Berger, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024 Mainstream Jewish institutions, in the staff’s view, have supplanted an expansive tradition with a narrow ethnic tribalism: Jews can be atheists or Buddhists or connoisseurs of pepperoni pizza, but Israel’s status as a Jewish democracy remains sacred. Gideon Lewis-Kraus, The New Yorker, 9 Sep. 2024 The United States’ allies and partners regret that tribalism has diminished American diplomatic influence and soft power. Reuben Brigety, Foreign Affairs, 16 Feb. 2021 See all Example Sentences for tribalism 

Word History

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of tribalism was in 1861

Dictionary Entries Near tribalism

Cite this Entry

“Tribalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tribalism. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.

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