Pronunciation: [ˈɪnsjʊlə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "insular" is influenced by its Latin roots. The word is pronounced as /ˈɪnsjʊlər/ and is commonly used to describe someone who is narrow-minded or isolated. The "s" in "insular" is pronounced as a voiced /z/ sound, while the "u" is pronounced as a reduced vowel /ə/. The presence of the letter "s" in the spelling is because the Latin word "insula" means "island," which is the root word of "insular."
Insular is an adjective that describes someone or something as having narrow or restricted viewpoints or perspectives, often due to limited exposure to different ideas, cultures, or external influences. The term is also used to describe physical or metaphorical isolation and self-sufficiency.
In the context of people, it refers to individuals who are uninterested or unaware of other cultures, customs, or beliefs, and tend to favor their own. Such individuals may exhibit closed-mindedness and resistance to change, resulting in a lack of understanding or tolerance towards those who are different from themselves.
Insularity may also pertain to geographical or physical isolation. It can describe areas that are cut off from or having limited contact with the rest of the world, such as islands or remote locations. In this sense, insular often implies a self-contained or independent existence.
Metaphorically, insular can be applied to institutions, organizations, or communities that are inward-looking, resistant to external influences, or focused solely on the concerns and interests of their own members. This perspective may hinder growth, collaboration, or innovation.
Overall, the term insular conveys the idea of confinement, limited knowledge, or narrow-mindedness, whether that be in an individual, geographical, or philosophical context.
Relating to any insula, especially the island of Reil.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Of or pert. to an island; surrounded by water.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "insular" comes from the Latin term "insula", which means "island". It ultimately derives from the ancient Proto-Indo-European root *en, meaning "in" or "inside". The term "insular" entered English in the early 17th century, borrowed from Latin and originally used to describe something related to islands. Over time, it also acquired metaphorical meanings, such as referring to people or groups who are isolated or exclusive in their attitudes or beliefs.
