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.
In the last decade or so, the growth of social media as a forum to vent discord and the political rise of a divisive figure like Donald Trump have fostered an extreme tribalism that has led to not only disagreeing with the opposing side but demonizing it. Jorge L. Ortiz, USA TODAY, 28 Feb. 2025 Their personalities, stories and overlapping narratives produce their own gravitational pull, meaning the crux of women’s football’s (still vigorously) pulsing tribalism is not as simple as being from that part of the country, nor are the lines as black and white. Megan Feringa, The Athletic, 3 Feb. 2025 This new form of tribalism is often irrational and emotionally driven. Isabel Sawhill, Foreign Affairs, 4 Jan. 2021 Pernicious racial politics and illiberal impulses of tribalism have poisoned American society for so long that a decisive repudiation from top down is required. Wenyuan Wu, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Jan. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Tribalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tribalism. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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