insularity
UK: ˌɪnsjʊˈlærəti | US: ˌɪnsəˈlærəti
n. the state or quality of being isolated or detached from broader influences
n. narrow-mindedness or limited perspective, often due to isolation
insularity = insular<island> + ity<noun suffix>
- insular: Derived from Latin insula (island), metaphorically extended to mean "isolated" or "narrow in outlook."
- ity: A noun-forming suffix indicating a state or condition (from Latin -itas).
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin insula (island), reflecting how island communities historically developed distinct cultures due to physical separation. Over time, insular evolved to describe metaphorical isolation—whether geographic, cultural, or intellectual. The suffix -ity formalizes this concept into an abstract noun, emphasizing the condition of being insular.
The insularity of the village preserved its traditions but hindered technological progress.
Critics accused the government of insularity for ignoring global economic trends.
Travel helps break down the insularity of one’s worldview.
The island’s insularity made it a haven for rare species.
His insularity became apparent when he dismissed foreign customs without understanding them.