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nationalism

n.
US //ˈnæʃənəˌɫɪzəm// UK //nˈæʃənəlˌɪzəm// na·tion·al·ism
  1. 1 desire for independence (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the desire by a group of people who share a language or culture to form their own independent country.

    the advocacy of or support for the political independence of a particular nation or people. Often used in the context of anti-colonial or separatist movements.

    Example

    The rise of Scottish nationalism has led to many debates about leaving the United Kingdom.

    Example

    Nineteenth-century Europe was defined by various waves of ethnic nationalism that eventually dismantled several multi-ethnic empires.

    Usage

    Often followed by a specific region or ethnic group name.
  2. 2 Irish political movement (n.)
    C1 Advanced British English Dialect

    the political belief that Northern Ireland should leave the UK and join the Republic of Ireland.

    the political movement advocating for a united Ireland. In this specific regional context, it is contrasted with 'unionism'.

    Example

    He grew up in a family with a long history of Irish nationalism.

    Example

    The peace process required careful negotiation between the traditions of Ulster unionism and Irish nationalism to reach a power-sharing agreement.

    Usage

    Usually capitalised as 'Nationalism' when referring to the specific political identity in Northern Ireland.

    Teacher's tip

    This sense is highly specific to the politics of the British Isles; outside of this context, the word follows the more general definitions.
    • irish republicanism
    • unionism
    • loyalism
Origin

Borrowed from French nationalisme, equivalent to national + -ism.

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