Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

ethnocide

Noun

/ˌɛθ.nəʊ.saɪd/

Definition

The deliberate and systematic destruction of the culture of a specific ethnic group.

Examples

The government’s policies led to the ethnocide of indigenous tribes, as their languages and traditions were banned.
Many activists work tirelessly to raise awareness about the ethnocide occurring in certain regions of the world.
Efforts to preserve cultural heritage are crucial to prevent ethnocide in vulnerable communities.

Meaning

Ethnocide refers to actions taken with the intention of eradicating the cultural identity of a particular ethnic group. This can include the suppression of language, traditions, religious practices, and social structures. It is often distinguished from genocide, which is the physical extermination of a group, as ethnocide focuses on the cultural aspects rather than the physical existence.