protectionism

[pruh-tek-shuh-niz-uh m] /prəˈtɛk ʃəˌnɪz əm/

noun

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.

any program, policy, or system of laws that seeks to provide protection for property owners, wildlife, the environment, etc.

Origin

1855-60; protection + -ism

Related forms

protectionist, noun, adjective

protectionistic, adjective

antiprotectionist, noun, adjective

Examples from the web for protectionist

Such protectionist moves reduce trade, and ultimately, prosperity for both nations involved.
The globalization myth helped us move toward overcoming protectionist sentiments.
The protectionist attempt to resurrect the neighborhood as a cultural unit only supports this bureaucratic imperialism.
The onslaught is causing backlash in protectionist-minded countries.
But the fragility is not mainly to do with the risks of a protectionist shift in policy.
Zero-sum thinking can take over, leading to mercantilist and protectionist policies.
His instinct for rational economics has turned him from a protectionist into a champion of free trade.
In the short term, these protectionist measures will give some breathing space to an ailing industry.
Not only is there the danger of a protectionist backlash.
Going in too strong also carries other risks, including a protectionist backlash.

Word Origin and History for protectionist

in the economics sense, 1841, from French protectionniste (in political economy sense, protection is attested from 1789). As an adjective by 1843.

protectionism

1846, from protectionist + -ism.