Unpatriotic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unpatriotic

[สŒnหˆpeษชtriหŒษ‘tษชk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

disloyal behavior

Unpatriotic refers to actions or attitudes that show a lack of loyalty or support for one's country. Such behavior can be seen as treasonous or disrespectful towards national values. It often encompasses actions that undermine the interests or integrity of a nation.

Synonyms

disloyal, treasonous, unfaithful.

Examples of usage

  • His unpatriotic remarks angered many citizens.
  • She was accused of unpatriotic activities during the war.
  • They considered it unpatriotic to criticize the government abroad.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Politics

  • In some societies, expressing unpatriotic views can lead to societal backlash, often labeling individuals as disloyal or traitors.
  • Political dissent has historically been seen as unpatriotic by some, yet in many democracies, it is considered a vital part of civic engagement.
  • The labeling of actions or opinions as 'unpatriotic' can serve as a tool for political control or to stifle free speech.

Pop Culture

  • Movies and songs often depict characters who are labeled as unpatriotic when they critique their government, highlighting the tension between patriotism and dissent.
  • In the 1960s, during the Vietnam War, many artists and activists were branded as unpatriotic for opposing the war, illustrating how the term is often used in cultural debates.
  • Comedians and satirists frequently address unpatriotic themes, using humor to provoke discussions around national identity and loyalty.

History

  • Throughout history, various regimes have defined unpatriotic actions in ways that justify persecution of dissenters, showing the term's use as a weapon.
  • In the past, unpatriotic behaviors such as draft dodging during war times led to severe consequences, reflecting the era's cultural views on loyalty.
  • The Red Scare in the 1950s in the U.S. saw many accused of unpatriotic affiliations simply for their political beliefs or associations.

Psychology

  • Understanding the perception of unpatriotism involves analyzing collective identity and how societal norms shape personal beliefs.
  • The feeling of patriotism can be tied to psychological factors such as group identity and belonging, and its absence can lead to feelings of alienation.
  • Research indicates that labeling someone as unpatriotic often invokes strong emotional responses, sometimes leading to polarized opinions.

Origin of 'unpatriotic'

Main points about word origin

  • The prefix 'un-' means 'not', combined with 'patriotic', derived from the Latin word 'patria', meaning fatherland or country.
  • 'Patriot' comes from the Greek word 'patriotes' which means 'fellow countryman', emphasizing a strong bond to one's homeland.
  • The concept of being 'patriotic' has shifted over time, influenced by wars and social movements, leading to varying definitions of 'unpatriotic'.

The word 'unpatriotic' is formed by the prefix 'un-', which indicates negation, added to 'patriotic'. The term 'patriotic' originates from the Latin word 'patriota', meaning a 'fellow countryman', which in turn derives from 'patria', meaning 'fatherland' or 'native country'. The concept of patriotism became more pronounced in culture and politics during the 18th and 19th centuries, especially in the context of national independence and identity. The first use of 'unpatriotic' in English can be traced back to the late 19th century, when it was often used to describe actions that were perceived as a betrayal or lack of commitment to one's nation, particularly during times of war or national crisis. Today, the term carries strong connotations and is often employed in political discourse to label dissent or criticism that deviates from the accepted patriotic narrative.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,263, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.