# Balkanization

> English word · Noun · IPA /ˌbɔːl.kən.aɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/

## Definitions
1. The fragmentation of a geopolitical region into several small states that are often hostile or non-cooperative with each other.
2. Any disintegration or fragmentation process.

## Etymology
From Balkan + -ization. The term is a reference to the conflicts that the Balkan peninsula experienced in the 20th century.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/balkanization