Definition of nationalismnext
1
as in patriotism
excessive favoritism towards one's own country Nazism's almost epic nationalism appealed to downtrodden Germans still suffering the humiliation of being defeated in World War I

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2

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 nationalism Magyar’s participation and remarks at National Day of Unity commemorations should put to rest the idea that Hungarian nationalism rooted in memory politics is weakening. Brett R. Chloupek, The Conversation, 15 July 2026 Purges of the state bureaucracy and judiciary followed, while Erdogan whittled away at the Turkish republic’s secular foundations with his brand of religious nationalism. Ishaan Tharoor, New Yorker, 9 July 2026 However, Thailand, driven by nationalism and a desire to define borders before resource sharing, remains resistant, leaving the valuable energy untapped. Ken Silverstein, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026 But if nationalism is a hunger for prestige and preeminence, America’s self-image as the City on a Hill is nationalism in embryo. Dominic Erdozain, Time, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for nationalism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for nationalism
patriotism
Noun
  • The team’s recital of the pre-match national anthem almost acted like a referendum on each player’s patriotism.
    Adam Crafton, New York Times, 20 July 2026
  • But lest anyone consider this bringing political commentary into music, Cain preemptively insisted that, in boosting his brand of patriotism, this didn’t count.
    Chris Willman, Variety, 20 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Nationalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/nationalism. Accessed 26 Jul. 2026.

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