1. people who live in provinces or rural areas, especially those considered unsophisticated by urban standards
Usage: often used with a condescending tone
2. members of a religious order who live in provinces outside the main center
Usage: religious context

Examples

• The city elite looked down on the provincials visiting from small towns.
• Many provincials moved to the capital seeking better opportunities.
• The theater company performed for both locals and provincials alike.
• The provincials were unfamiliar with the latest urban fashions.
• Several provincials attended the religious conference in the city.
• The order’s provincials gathered for their annual meeting.