provincialism

noun

pro·​vin·​cial·​ism prə-ˈvin(t)-shə-ˌli-zəm 

1

: a dialectal or local word, phrase, or idiom

2

: the quality or state of being provincial

Examples of provincialism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Such provincialism results in little or no coordination between ministries and undermines the capacity for broad strategic planning and implementation -- both of which are necessary to solve the country’s infrastructure and services deficits. —Raad Alkadiri, Foreign Affairs, 3 Mar. 2011

These developments are good news for the overall stability of the western Balkans, a region still mired in sectarianism and provincialism. —Jasmin Mujanovic, Foreign Affairs, 6 Sep. 2017

And finally, the struggle against the provincialism and ignorance of Czech society. —Jared Marcel Pollen, The New Republic, 12 July 2023

True to its namesake, the last day of this year’s festival repped all of the Boston things, from sarcasm to loyalty, Sam to Dunks, provincialism to the Hub of the Universe. —James Sullivan, BostonGlobe.com, 29 May 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1770, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

provincialism

noun

pro·​vin·​cial·​ism prə-ˈvin-chə-ˌliz-əm 

1

: a local word, phrase, or idiom

2

: the quality or state of being provincial