provincialism

noun

pro·​vin·​cial·​ism prə-ˈvin(t)-shə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce provincialism (audio)
1
: a dialectal or local word, phrase, or idiom
2
: the quality or state of being provincial

Examples of provincialism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Such provincialism results in little or no coordination between ministries and undermines the capacity for broad strategic planning and implementation -- both of which are necessary to solve the country’s infrastructure and services deficits. Raad Alkadiri, Foreign Affairs, 3 Mar. 2011 These developments are good news for the overall stability of the western Balkans, a region still mired in sectarianism and provincialism. Jasmin Mujanovic, Foreign Affairs, 6 Sep. 2017 And finally, the struggle against the provincialism and ignorance of Czech society. Jared Marcel Pollen, The New Republic, 12 July 2023 True to its namesake, the last day of this year’s festival repped all of the Boston things, from sarcasm to loyalty, Sam to Dunks, provincialism to the Hub of the Universe. James Sullivan, BostonGlobe.com, 29 May 2023 See all Example Sentences for provincialism 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'provincialism.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1770, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of provincialism was in 1770

Dictionary Entries Near provincialism

Cite this Entry

“Provincialism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/provincialism. Accessed 27 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

provincialism

noun
pro·​vin·​cial·​ism prə-ˈvin-chə-ˌliz-əm How to pronounce provincialism (audio)
1
: a local word, phrase, or idiom
2
: the quality or state of being provincial

More from Merriam-Webster on provincialism

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!