parochial
UK: pəˈrəʊkiəl | US: pəˈroʊkiəl
adj. relating to a parish or church
adj. narrow in scope; limited to local concerns
adj. provincial or unsophisticated
The word "parochial" originates from the Late Latin "parochialis," derived from "parochia" (parish), which itself comes from the Greek "paroikia" (sojourn or neighborhood). The Greek root "paroikia" combines "para-" (beside) and "oikos" (house), reflecting the idea of a community living near a church. Over time, "parochial" evolved from its literal church-related meaning to describe a narrow, local perspective—metaphorically extending the idea of being confined to one's "parish."
The parochial school focuses on both religious and academic education.
His parochial views prevented him from understanding global issues.
The debate revealed her parochial mindset, centered solely on local traditions.
Parochial records often provide valuable historical data about small communities.
Critics accused the mayor of being too parochial in addressing regional challenges.