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Definition of protectionist

protectionist

/prəˈtɛk.ʃən.ɪst/
pro · tec · tion · ist

Plural:protectionists
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protectionist Lexical Profile

protectionist Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Relating to, advocating, or characterized by the economic policy of restricting imports from other countries through tariffs, quotas, or regulations to shield domestic industries from foreign competition.

Example

"The administration introduced protectionist measures on imported steel in an effort to bolster domestic manufacturing."

• noun

1

An advocate or practitioner of economic policies that restrict international trade, such as tariffs and import quotas, in order to protect domestic producers and workers from foreign competition.

Example

"As a staunch protectionist, the senator argued that high tariffs were essential to preserve local factory jobs."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for protectionist

• Rhymes for protectionist

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-19th century during debates over British corn laws and tariffs, formed from 'protection' ( ultimately from Latin protegere, meaning 'to cover in front') plus the suffix '-ist'.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Protectionist. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/protectionist
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