Balkanize

[ bawl-kuh-nahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, Bal·kan·ized, Bal·kan·iz·ing.

1. to divide (a country, territory, etc.) into small, quarrelsome, ineffectual states.
2. (often lowercase) to divide (groups, areas, etc.) into contending and usually ineffectual factions:

   a movement to balkanize minority voters.

Balkanize

/ ˈbɔːlkəˌnaɪz /

verb

1. tr to divide (a territory) into small warring states
2. to divide (a group or organization) into small factions

Derived Forms

• ˈBalkaˌnized, adjective
• ˌBalkaniˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• Balkan·i·zation noun
• Balkan·ism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of Balkanize¹

First recorded in 1915–20; Balkan + -ize

Example Sentences

Since TV now is such a Balkanized affair.

From Los Angeles Times

We will either Balkanize or fall into abject fascism.

From Salon

In September, the SFJ launched a "death to India - Balkanize" campaign to "shut down Indian missions" globally after a diplomatic row between Canada and India over the separatist killing.

From Reuters

In September, SFJ launched a "death to India - Balkanize" campaign to "shut down Indian missions" globally after Canada said that it was investigating allegations linking Indian agents to the Sikh separatist's killing.

From Reuters

The administrative oversight of these public investments including county and city governments and the King County Regional Homelessness Authority is highly Balkanized with predictable results.

From Seattle Times