BusinessSeptember 7, 2026

insular

IN-suh-ler

Definition

Refers to a narrow-minded, inward-looking perspective that ignores external ideas or diverse viewpoints.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'insula,' meaning 'island.' It evolved to describe things that are detached, isolated, or narrow in scope, much like an island separated from the mainland.

In the news

Veihmeyer advocates for rejecting 'insular' thinking in leadership to avoid echo chambers and instead embrace cognitive friction by seeking out diverse perspectives.

Beyond the comfort zone: How John Veihmeyer learned to lead through vulnerability

Read the full article ↗

The Business Journals

Related words

Learn words like this every day

Meet new words every morning.

Newspoken pulls carefully chosen words from the day’s news — with clear definitions, context, and light review that makes them stick. Get it on your phone.