isolationism

noun

iso·​la·​tion·​ism ˌī-sə-ˈlā-shə-ˌni-zəm How to pronounce isolationism (audio)
 also  ˌi-
: a policy of national isolation by abstention from alliances and other international political and economic relations
isolationist noun or adjective

Examples of isolationism in a Sentence

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.
The undiluted isolationism of his campaign messaging could prove to be a straitjacket that paralyzes the Trump administration’s foreign policy at a critical time. Peter D. Feaver, Foreign Affairs, 6 Nov. 2024 CEOs expressed their opposition to not only protectionism but also isolationism. Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, TIME, 27 Sep. 2024 In the event of a second Trump term and a U.S. turn to isolationism, the steps Kyiv takes now to gear up for a summer offensive can at least position the Ukrainian military to sustain its defenses and continue to wear down Russia through the next year. Alexander Vindman, Foreign Affairs, 25 Sep. 2024 In March, 1941, F.D.R. signed the Lend-Lease Act, effectively ending American isolationism by opening up U.S. military aid to Britain. Margaret Talbot, The New Yorker, 16 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for isolationism 

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of isolationism was in 1919

Dictionary Entries Near isolationism

Cite this Entry

“Isolationism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/isolationism. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

isolationism

noun
iso·​la·​tion·​ism ˌī-sə-ˈlā-shə-ˌniz-əm How to pronounce isolationism (audio)
: a national policy of avoiding international political and economic relations
isolationist noun or adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on isolationism

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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