protectionist

noun

pro·​tec·​tion·​ist prə-ˈtek-sh(ə-)nist How to pronounce protectionist (audio)
: an advocate of government economic protection for domestic producers through restrictions on foreign competitors
protectionism
prə-ˈtek-shə-ˌni-zəm How to pronounce protectionist (audio)
noun
protectionist adjective

Examples of protectionist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
By striking down protectionist laws, the Court can foster a fair, competitive marketplace. — Noel Burgess, Forbes.com, 9 Mar. 2026 The couple's attorneys argue the law is protectionist, harms consumers by driving up costs, and benefits only the funeral industry. — Dale Denwalt, Oklahoman, 6 Feb. 2026 Rising Chinese surpluses then fuel protectionist pressure abroad, and the subsequent pushback encourages Beijing to take further steps to increase its self-sufficiency. — Neil Shearing, Time, 20 May 2026 China criticized the European Union’s in-depth probe into subsidies for Chinese wind power companies, calling the move protectionist and vowing it would take action to protect the country’s interests. — Alfred Cang, Fortune, 5 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for protectionist

Word History

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of protectionist was in 1834

Rhymes for protectionist

See All Rhymes for protectionist

Browse Nearby Words

protectionism
protectionist
Protection line
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Protectionist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/protectionist. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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