sectarianism Synonym

denominationalism - factionalism - partisan spirit - bigotry - intolerance - chauvinism

Sectarianism is the strong adherence to a specific religious, ideological, or ethnic group that leads to distrust, discrimination, or hostility toward others who belong to different groups. It often involves viewing one’s own sect as exclusively right or superior, and refusing cooperation or interaction with outsiders. Sectarianism can appear in religious communities, political movements, or ethnic factions, and may fuel social fragmentation, prejudice, and even violent conflict. The term is usually negative, highlighting narrow-minded loyalty to a subgroup at the expense of broader social cohesion, tolerance, and mutual understanding within a society.