Ultranational

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

  1. Marked by an intense form of nationalism that prioritizes a particular nation's interests over others
  2. Describing a strong patriotic sentiment that can result in the discrimination or rejection of foreign entities
  3. Characterized by an extreme devotion to one's country that often leads to the belief that it is superior to others | Pertaining to the fervent support of national interests, frequently at the expense of international cooperation | Involving an excessive loyalty to one's nation, which may foster exclusionary attitudes toward outsiders and foreign cultures

Etymology: The term "ultranational" emerges from a potent blend of the prefix "ultra-" and the root word "national." The prefix "ultra-" derives from the Latin "ultra," meaning "beyond" or "on the other side of." It conveys a sense of extremity or excess, while "national" originates from the Latin word "natio," which refers to a group of people born in the same place. Together, these elements form a word that suggests an extreme or excessive form of nationalism, encapsulating an intense loyalty or devotion to one's nation, often at the expense of other nations or groups. The usage of "ultranational" can be traced back to the early 20th century, aligning with a time when various political movements around the world were harnessing extreme forms of nationalism. The term gained prominence as countries grappled with issues of identity, sovereignty, and the implications of national pride during tumultuous periods, including the world wars and the rise of totalitarian regimes. Notably, it has been used to describe political ideologies and movements that advocate for the supremacy of one nation over others, often linked to xenophobia and exclusionary practices. Over time, this term has evolved to encompass not only the fervent advocacy for one's nation but also the potential dangers that come with such extremity. While nationalism can foster unity and pride, ultranationalism can lead to divisive and aggressive stances against perceived outsiders. As global dynamics shift and immigration becomes a significant topic of discussion, the implications of ultranationalism continue to resonate in contemporary discourse, reminding us of the fine line between patriotic pride and the exclusionary tendencies that can arise from it.

Synonyms: extreme nationalist, radical nationalist

Antonyms: international, global, cosmopolitan