ethnocentric

[ eth-noh-sen-trik ]

adjective

1. Sociology. demonstrating a belief in the inherent superiority of one’s own ethnic group or culture:

   Sadly, an ethnocentric macho attitude is often mistaken for patriotism.

2. viewing other ethnic or cultural groups through the lens of one’s own:

   Diversity of cultures helps to liberate us from the tunnel vision of an ethnocentric viewpoint.

Other Words From

• eth·no·cen·tri·cal·ly adverb
• eth·no·cen·tric·i·ty [eth-noh-sen-, tris, -i-tee] noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of ethnocentric¹

ethno- ( def ) + -centric ( def )

Example Sentences

Schools in Oregon and Washington now teach a nuanced story of cultural collision between ethnocentric missionaries and a small, panicked tribe.

From Washington Post

For them the old ethnocentric jealousy, vanity, truculency, and ambition are the strongest elements in patriotism.

From Project Gutenberg

In Dunbar, Negro literature attained an ethnocentric point of view.

From Project Gutenberg

The most intense patriots are often ethnocentric and chauvinistic.

From Project Gutenberg