SKIP TO CONTENT

tribalism

/ˌtraɪbəˈlɪzəm/
IPA guide

Other forms: tribalisms

The state of living in a tribe is tribalism. This word is also used to describe situations where people are overly loyal to their own group. For example, a newspaper editorial might complain about tribalism in American politics.

This word was exclusively used to describe aspects of living in a traditional tribe until the mid-20th century, when it came to have a more derogatory meaning. Today, tribalism is often seen as putting one's own group above every other consideration, including kindness or justice. Tribalism can lead to bigotry and racism and, when taken to extremes, even war.

Definitions of tribalism
  1. noun
    the state of living together in tribes
    see moresee less
    type of:
    state
    the way something is with respect to its main attributes
  2. noun
    the beliefs of a tribal society
    see moresee less
    type of:
    belief
    any cognitive content held as true
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘tribalism'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family