protectionism

[ pruh-tek-shuh-niz-uhm ]

noun

1. Economics. the theory, practice, or system of fostering or developing domestic industries by protecting them from foreign competition through duties or quotas imposed on importations.
2. any program, policy, or system of laws that seeks to provide protection for property owners, wildlife, the environment, etc.

Other Words From

• pro·tection·ist noun adjective
• pro·tection·istic adjective
• anti·pro·tection·ist noun adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of protectionism¹

First recorded in 1855–60; protection + -ism

Example Sentences

Isolationism, protectionism, nativism and autocracy have become popular forces that may well undo the pillars on which U.S. leadership and prosperity have rested since 1945.

From Salon

If the world's biggest economy is resorting to mass protectionism, it's going to be difficult to persuade many smaller economies not to do the same.

From BBC

During his campaign, Trump made broad policy pledges, often lacking specific details, based on principles of non-interventionism and trade protectionism - or as he puts it “America First”.

From BBC

He pooh-poohs warnings from the Wall Street Journal editorial board and cites the 19th century tariffs of President McKinley, who in fact disavowed such protectionism late in his term.

From Los Angeles Times

"Trump's economic approach has much more in common with founders era political economy because of shared protectionism and elitism," Rao said.

From Salon