What does jingoistic mean?
Jingoistic describes language, attitudes, or conduct marked by intense and often uncritical patriotism, especially when expressed in aggressive or hostile terms toward other countries. The adjective is commonly used to criticize political speeches, public demonstrations, media coverage, and nationalistic campaigns that present their own country as inherently superior while portraying rivals as dangerous or inferior. Unlike the generally approving word patriotic, jingoistic carries a strongly negative connotation. It is especially associated with political and journalistic discourse, although it can apply to any boastful or bellicose display of national loyalty. The term is related to jingoism and jingoist, and is often used in phrases such as jingoistic rhetoric and jingoistic nationalism. Its usefulness lies in distinguishing measured patriotism from rhetoric that is excessive, hostile, or intended to stir up national antagonism.
adjectiveCharacterized by exaggerated or aggressive patriotism, often expressed through strong nationalistic sentiment or hostility toward other countries. It can also describe speech or attitudes that treat one's own nation as unquestionably superior.
- Characterized by exaggerated, aggressive, or uncritical patriotism.
- Characterized by hostile or bellicose hostility toward other nations.
"The politician's jingoistic speech prompted widespread criticism for its hostile portrayal of neighboring states."
"The article was dismissed as jingoistic because of its uncritical celebration of national military power."
"Her speech avoided jingoistic rhetoric and instead emphasized international cooperation."
Jingoistic language sounds patriotic on the surface, but its history points to the noisy, martial spirit of nationalist politics.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does jingoistic come from?
The adjective jingoistic was formed in the 19th century from jingoism, a word associated with aggressive nationalism and popular political slogans. Jingoism developed alongside the noun jingo, which was used especially in the phrase by jingo, expressing strong feeling or emphatic loyalty. The ultimate origin of jingo is uncertain, although it is often connected with 19th-century political and cultural usage. The adjective spread into general use for describing patriotic rhetoric and attitudes regarded as excessively nationalistic.
Related word forms
How jingoistic is actually used
The term is usually critical and disapproving. It is more common in political and journalistic commentary than in neutral descriptions of ordinary patriotic feeling.
Easily confused with jingoistic
Jingoistic emphasizes loud, aggressive, or bellicose patriotism, whereas chauvinistic more broadly describes an excessive and uncritical attachment to one's country.