sectarianism

the word 'sectarianism' traces a clear path from concrete action to abstract ideology. its core, 'sect', originates from the latin 'secta', a philosophical school or following, derived from the verb 'sequi' (to follow). the addition of the latin adjectival suffix '-arian' created 'sectarian', describing one who belongs to such a group. finally, the abstract noun-forming suffix '-ism', of greek origin via latin, was appended to denote the rigid doctrine or system of behavior characterized by excessive devotion to a sect. thus, the term evolved from simply denoting a follower to encapsulating the entire principle of divisive partisan allegiance.

Structure: sect (group) + arian (adherent) + ism (doctrine) sect (from latin 'secta', meaning 'a following, school of thought', from 'sequi' to follow; functions as the core noun). arian (from latin '-arius', an adjective-forming suffix denoting 'belonging to or connected with'; functions as a suffix to form 'sectarian', meaning 'of a sect'). ism (from greek '-ismos', a suffix forming nouns of action, state, or doctrine; functions as a suffix to form an abstract noun denoting a system or principle).