Ultrapatriotism

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

  1. An extreme fervor for one's nation that often entails the denial of alternative viewpoints and criticisms regarding national conduct
  2. An intense loyalty to one’s homeland typically marked by the dismissal of external critiques and an unwillingness to consider multicultural perspectives
  3. An excessive devotion to one’s country characterized by the rejection of dissenting opinions and a refusal to acknowledge global perspectives

Etymology: The term in question is a compound formed by the prefix "ultra-" and the noun "patriotism." The prefix "ultra-" entered English in the late 18th century, originally from Latin meaning "beyond" or "on the far side of." It commonly denotes excess or going beyond the usual limits. This prefix has been used in various contexts to intensify meaning, such as in "ultramodern" or "ultraconservative." The root word "patriotism" derives from the Latin "patriota," meaning "fellow countryman," which itself traces back to the Greek "patriōtēs," from "patris" meaning "fatherland." The concept of loyalty to one's country became articulated in English by the late 16th century. Over time, "patriotism" came to signify a feeling of love, devotion, and defense of one's nation. Combining "ultra-" with "patriotism" produces a noun that conveys an extreme or excessive form of national loyalty, often with a connotation of fervor that exceeds ordinary patriotic sentiment. The formation of such compounds is typical in English, particularly from the 19th century onward, as political and social discourse sought to capture nuances of ideological intensity. While not as old as either component, the coined term likely emerged in modern political contexts to describe fervent nationalism or an aggressive form of patriotism, sometimes bordering on zealotry. Its use often implies a critical stance toward the intensity of such feelings, highlighting the potential dangers of excessive national pride.

Synonyms: extreme nationalism, excessive loyalty, jingoism, chauvinism, patriot fervor

Antonyms: internationalism, globalism, cosmopolitanism, pacifism, neutrality