1. People who support or advocate for protectionism, the economic policy of restricting imports to protect domestic industries from foreign competition.
Usage: Plural form of protectionist; Often used in political and economic contexts

Examples

• Protectionists argue that tariffs help preserve jobs in domestic manufacturing.
• The debate between protectionists and free traders has shaped trade policy for centuries.
• Many protectionists believe that government intervention is necessary to protect local businesses.
• Protectionists often support policies that make imported goods more expensive.
• The protectionists in Congress pushed for stricter import regulations.
• Some economists criticize protectionists for ignoring the benefits of international trade.