isolationism

noun

iso·​la·​tion·​ism ˌī-sə-ˈlā-shə-ˌni-zəm How to pronounce isolationism (audio)
also ˌi-
: a policy of national isolation by abstention from alliances and other international political and economic relations
isolationist noun or adjective

Examples of isolationism in a Sentence

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.
That streak of isolationism resonated with parts of his MAGA coalition. Toluse Olorunnipa, The Atlantic, 2 Mar. 2026 America First is not isolationism. NBC news, 1 Mar. 2026 Two European powers pushed for an acceleration in military spending, as US isolationism and Russian aggression piled pressure on the continent. Tom Chivers, semafor.com, 17 Feb. 2026 This does not mean isolationism; Vance (and most of those in favor of foreign policy restraint) accept that America has security interests that warrant the use of military force. Frank Devito, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for isolationism

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of isolationism was in 1919

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Cite this Entry

“Isolationism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/isolationism. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

isolationism

noun
iso·​la·​tion·​ism ˌī-sə-ˈlā-shə-ˌniz-əm How to pronounce isolationism (audio)
: a national policy of avoiding international political and economic relations
isolationist noun or adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on isolationism

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