INSULAR Synonyms: 60 Similar and Opposite Words

insular

adjective

ˈin(t)-su̇-lər

Definition of insular

as in parochial

not broad or open in views or opinions an insular community that is not receptive of new ideas, especially from outsiders

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of insular At times, Season 3 becomes too insular. — Ben Travers, IndieWire, 7 June 2026 The Vanity Fair article was published shortly after, further ostracizing Adams from her former friends and causing the remaining Eternal Values members to become even more insular. — Ct Jones, Rolling Stone, 1 June 2026 Through candid interviews with his coaches, doctors, family members and the two great rivals who helped define his career, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, the documentary puts its audience at the center of the insular inner circle of one of the most famous athletes on the planet. — Ava Wallace, New York Times, 29 May 2026 Seven in ten people worldwide now have what Edelman researchers describe as an insular trust mindset. — Jonathan Jordan, Fortune, 27 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for insular

Recent Examples of Synonyms for insular

Adjective

Many children in Florida attending private, parochial or homeschool programs do not take the Florida Assessment of Student Thinking, or FAST, test, which is used by Florida’s public school districts to measure students’ achievement.

— Kendall Deas, The Conversation, 6 July 2026
They are hired hands and stewards of other people’s capital, with no desire to becoming embroiled in internecine squabbles between clashing advocates, parochial activists, and plain opportunists latching on to the moment.

— Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Time, 28 June 2026

Definition of parochial

Adjective

In contrast, instruments on the FireSat satellites will be able to detect small brush and roadside fires 16 feet across.

— Eric Niiler, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026
At the Cannes Film Festival in May, the model Toni Garrn made a striking appearance in a blue-black bustier dress embroidered with small petals.

— Amy Verner, Vogue, 6 July 2026

Definition of small

Adjective

Less social cohesion A decade ago, crime was infrequent and petty.

— Joseph J. Gonzalez, The Conversation, 9 July 2026
The general reaction to the policy has been overwhelmingly positive, Xue said, aside from some remarks on social media that charging for a smashed teacup was a petty move.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 8 July 2026

Definition of petty

Adjective

The broad straps offset the lower neckline, which scoops at its narrowest point for a softer look, rather than forming a harsh line.

— Irene Richardson, InStyle, 13 July 2026
Plans with lower monthly costs often have narrower networks of doctors and hospitals, and less generous drug coverage.

— Renuka Rayasam, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 July 2026