noun

irredentism

ir-ih-DEN-tiz-əm

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Irredentism (noun) means a nationalist doctrine that calls for annexing foreign territory on the grounds of historic or ethnic ties. Example: “The border dispute is fuelled by irredentism on both sides.”

noun

A nationalist doctrine that calls for annexing foreign territory on the grounds of historic or ethnic ties.

"The border dispute is fuelled by irredentism on both sides."

"Historians trace the war back to a wave of irredentism in the region."

"Politicians used irredentism to justify claims on neighbouring provinces."

How to use irredentism

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishWanting to take back land beyond your country's borders because your people used to live there.

When to use it

It is a formal term used in political and historical writing rather than everyday conversation.

Memory tip

Remember it describes a claim to land, not just national pride: it always points at a specific territory.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

irredentist

Common pairings

a wave of irredentism territorial irredentism irredentism and nationalism fuel irredentism

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “irredentism” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The border dispute is fuelled by _____ on both sides.

Etymology

Irredentism was formed by adding the suffix -ism, denoting a doctrine or movement, to irredentist. The word therefore names the political stance held by irredentists.

Origin: English

Synonyms

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irridentism

Frequently asked questions

What does irredentism mean?

It is a nationalist doctrine that argues for reclaiming land beyond a country's borders because of historic or ethnic connections.

Is irredentism the same as nationalism?

It is a specific form of nationalism focused on annexing particular territories, rather than nationalism in general.

Where does the word irredentism come from?

It comes from irredentist with the suffix -ism added to describe the doctrine that irredentists hold.

What is the meaning of irredentism?

"irredentism" (noun) means a nationalist doctrine that calls for annexing foreign territory on the grounds of historic or ethnic ties.