Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

balkanize

verb
/ˈbɔːl.kə.naɪz/
Definition
To divide a region or group into smaller, often hostile units.
Examples
  • The ongoing political tensions could balkanize the country further.
  • After the war, the region began to balkanize into several independent states.
Meaning
The term balkanize refers to the fragmentation of a large area or group into smaller, disconnected parts, especially when these parts are in conflict with one another.
Synonyms
  • Divide
  • Fragment
  • Disintegrate
  • Partition
  • Splinter