1. divided into small, often hostile units or groups
Usage: political science; often capitalized when referring to the Balkans

Examples

• The once-unified organization became balkanized after the leadership dispute.
• The region’s balkanized political structure made cooperation difficult.
• Critics argued that the new policy would leave the department balkanized and ineffective.
• The balkanized nature of the industry prevented standardization.
• After the merger failed, the company remained balkanized into competing divisions.
• The balkanized school system created unequal educational opportunities.