Exclusionary/ɪkˈskluːʒəneri/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Social Context Used when social groups create boundaries that keep others out. The fraternity's exclusionary traditions have sparked debates on campus. Pro Tip 2/3Negative Tone Often implies unfair practices; something socially undesirable. Their exclusionary stance has led to widespread criticism. Pro Tip 3/3Basis of Exclusion Ask what the reasons for exclusion are, like race or gender. An exclusionary policy based on age is unacceptable in the workplace.