nationalist
NASH-uh-nuh-lihst
Nationalist (noun) means a person who strongly supports nationalism, especially the independence or interests of their own nation. Example: “My uncle is a committed nationalist who wants his region to govern itself.”
noun
1
A person who strongly supports nationalism, especially the independence or interests of their own nation.
"My uncle is a committed nationalist who wants his region to govern itself."
"The speaker, a proud nationalist, urged people to buy goods made in their own country."
"The nationalist party won a surprising number of seats in the election."
adj
1
Relating to or supporting nationalism.
"The newspaper was known for its nationalist views on trade and culture."
"Nationalist feeling ran high in the small country after it gained its freedom."
"The nationalist movement gathered strength after decades of foreign rule."
"Nationalism has been on the rise worldwide, as evidenced by the success of nationalist political parties in Europe."
— Doug Criss, The definition of a nationalist (2018)
How to use nationalist
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone (or something) that pushes strongly for national identity, independence, or interests.
Common pairings
nationalist movement
nationalist party
nationalist rhetoric
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like nationalist.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- nationalists
- Comparative
- more nationalist
- Superlative
- most nationalist
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
My uncle is a committed _____ who wants his region to govern itself.
Etymology
From "national" plus the agent-forming suffix "-ist," meaning someone who follows or believes in it.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for nationalist
realist
vocalist
idealist
finalist
loyalist
medalist
socialist
herbalist
mentalist
capitalist
journalist
specialist
See all rhymes for nationalist →
Frequently asked questions
What does “nationalist” mean?
The word “nationalist” means a person who strongly supports nationalism, especially the independence or interests of their own nation. In plain terms, someone (or something) that pushes strongly for national identity, independence, or interests.
How do you pronounce “nationalist”?
“Nationalist” is pronounced NASH-uh-nuh-lihst (/ˈnæʃ.ə.nə.lɪst/ in IPA).
How do you use “nationalist” in a sentence?
Here is “nationalist” used in a sentence: “The nationalist party won a surprising number of seats in the election.”
What is the opposite of “nationalist”?
The opposite of “nationalist” — its antonyms — are globalist and antinational.
What part of speech is “nationalist”?
Depending on how it is used, “nationalist” can be a noun and an adjective.
Is “nationalist” a common word?
“Nationalist” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “nationalist” have?
“Nationalist” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a person who strongly supports nationalism, especially the independence or interests of their own nation.
What is the difference between a nationalist and a patriot?
A "patriot" feels love and pride for their country. A "nationalist" goes further, strongly promoting the interests, independence, or superiority of their own nation, sometimes above those of other nations. The two overlap, but "nationalist" places more emphasis on the nation's standing relative to others.
Is nationalist a positive or negative term?
It depends on context. "Nationalist" can be neutral or positive when it describes support for a nation's independence, as in an independence movement. It can be negative when it suggests hostility toward other nations or ethnic groups.
What is the difference between a nationalist and a globalist?
A "nationalist" prioritizes the interests and independence of their own nation. A "globalist" favours international cooperation and integration across national borders. The two terms are often used as opposites.
What is the difference between a nationalist and a populist?
A "nationalist" focuses on the interests and identity of a particular nation. A "populist" appeals to ordinary people against established elites, regardless of nation. A political figure can be one, the other, or both.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include nationalist:
