tribalism

noun

trib·​al·​ism ˈtrī-bə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce tribalism (audio)
1
: tribal consciousness and loyalty
especially : exaltation of the tribe above other groups
2
: strong in-group loyalty

Examples of tribalism in a Sentence

Tribalism within the group is strong. the corrupting influence of tribalism
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
In 2014, Weller, Boyd and Cumin found how tribalism in healthcare—rigid silos between doctors, nurses and staff—creates dangerous communication breakdowns. Paula Ferrada, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025 Uni has a unicorn in Jurassic in that there isn’t a fierce tribalism like other movie fanships. Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 7 July 2025 The rare scary movie that's also a thoughtful exploration of family, tribalism and remembering the dead. Brian Truitt, USA Today, 4 July 2025 Liebling took this characteristic, the public shows of modesty (and less public tribalism), as good old fashioned Midwestern provincialism. Christopher Borrelli, Chicago Tribune, 24 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for tribalism

Word History

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of tribalism was in 1861

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Cite this Entry

“Tribalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tribalism. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025.

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