gatekeeping

/ˈɡeɪtˌkipɪŋ/
noun
  1. The activity of controlling or limiting access to something, such as information, resources, or a group.
    • Online forums sometimes have gatekeeping that excludes new members.
    • The company's strict gatekeeping made it hard for new ideas to get through.
    • Gatekeeping by a few large publishers limits what books become popular.
  2. The practice of deciding who belongs to a particular group or community, often by setting arbitrary standards.
    • Some fans engage in gatekeeping, telling others they aren't 'real' fans.
    • Gatekeeping in hobby groups can discourage beginners from participating.
    • The community tried to reduce gatekeeping by welcoming all skill levels.
What does "gatekeeping" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean