nationalist
This term carries a heavy emotional charge that fluctuates based on the political climate. In the context of liberation movements, it is often viewed as a positive, heroic drive for self-determination and freedom from oppression. In a modern geopolitical context, however, it frequently acquires a pejorative tone, suggesting an aggressive or exclusionary attitude that prioritizes one's own country at the expense of international cooperation or the rights of minorities.
Countable when referring to individual people who hold these beliefs (e.g., three nationalists attended the rally).
💬Casual Conversation
this prompt is cooked. how do i even define a 'nationalist' without sounding like a boomer?
bet. just say they really like their country.
Meanings
A person who strongly identifies with their own nation and supports its interests, often to the exclusion or detriment of other nations.
"The nationalist argued that priority should be given to domestic industries over foreign imports."
Etymology
Derived from the French word nationaliste, which stems from national (relating to a nation) and the suffix -iste (denoting a proponent or adherent). The root is further traced back to the Latin natio, meaning birth or race, from the verb nasci, meaning to be born. The term gained prominence during the 19th century as the concept of the nation-state emerged as a primary political identity in Europe.