nationalism

noun

1. (countable, uncountable)A more extreme form of patriotism; the idea of a more extreme support for one's country, people or culture.

   “Communists, socialists, and Islamists are against nationalism.”

   “Perhaps the explanation of the Chinese situation most generally accepted by historians is nationalism, a phenomenon which has always occurred when a people of distinctive cultural characteristics becomes aware of foreign domination. Napoleonic domination in Italy and Germany a century ago created nationalism there, as did Turkish domination in the Balkans and the Arab countries.”

   “Other nationalisms aimed at liberating subjugated peoples who spoke the same language and lived in the same territory.”

   “Following the 1979 Revolution, Khomeini came out against nationalism.”

   “It dates back to the 17th century and rose into prominence during the uprisings in the 18th century that produced the American and French revolutions. But the word attained more of a negative connotation during the 20th century as it become associated with the nationalism movements in Europe that helped lead to World War I and World War II.”

2. (countable, uncountable)Support for the creation of a sovereign nation (which does not currently exist).

   “Basque nationalism”

   “Kurdish nationalism”

3. (Ireland, UK, countable, uncountable)Support for the union of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.