Democrat

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈdɛməˌkræt/ (British English), /ˈdɛməˌkræt/ (American English)

Definitions

• A person who supports or believes in the principles of democracy, especially representative democracy.
• An individual who is a member of or supports the Democratic Party (especially in the United States).
• A person advocating or practicing the principles of equality, social justice, and freedom for all citizens.

Usage Examples

• She is a proud Democrat who believes in the power of the people to influence government decisions.
• As a Democrat, he supported policies that emphasized healthcare reform and environmental protection.
• The politician was recognized as a committed Democrat who advocated for social justice throughout his career.

Etymology

Derived from the word "democracy," which comes from the Greek "demokratia" (from "demos" meaning "people" and "kratos" meaning "rule"), and used in the context of someone who supports democratic principles. The term "Democrat" specifically as a political designation came to prominence in the early 19th century.

Synonyms

• Progressive
• Libertarian
• Republican (in some contexts)
• Social Democrat
• Left-wing (in political contexts)

Antonyms

• Authoritarian
• Autocrat
• Dictator
• Conservative (in some contexts)
• Monarchist

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

Pronunciation may vary slightly in different English dialects, but the most common pronunciation is /ˈdɛməˌkræt/. In some dialects, the "o" sound is pronounced more as "a," while in others, it remains a clear "o." This variation is often seen in American vs. British English.

Historical Usage

The term "Democrat" has been in use since the early 19th century, especially with the rise of political parties that advocated for more participation by citizens in government. In the United States, the Democratic Party was founded in 1828, and the term has since been synonymous with liberal and progressive political ideologies.

Cultural Nuances

The word "Democrat" carries distinct cultural connotations depending on the region. In the United States, it is most strongly associated with the Democratic Party, which traditionally supports a more liberal or progressive agenda. In other parts of the world, the term may simply refer to someone who supports democratic governance without necessarily aligning with a specific political party.

More Information

Democrats typically advocate for policies that promote social justice, civil rights, and equality. The term has evolved over time, and in modern politics, a Democrat is often seen as someone who supports the rights of marginalized groups, environmental protections, and government intervention in the economy to address inequality. The term is often contrasted with "Republican," a label used by those who support more conservative policies. Democratic movements can be found globally, with various political parties using the term to reflect their support for democratic principles, even if their specific ideologies and platforms vary.