Communist

Definition

Communist refers to an advocate or supporter of communism, a political and economic ideology that aims for a classless society in which all property is publicly owned, and each person works and is compensated according to their abilities and needs. It can also be used as an adjective to describe anything related to communism.

Parts of Speech

• Noun (a person who supports communism)
• Adjective (relating to communism)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑːmjənɪst/
• Respelling: KAHM-yuh-nist

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒmjənɪst/
• Respelling: KOM-yuh-nist

Etymology

The word "communist" comes from the French word "communiste," which is derived from "communisme." The root "commun-" refers to "common" or "shared" property. The term first appeared in the mid-19th century, especially after Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels published "The Communist Manifesto" in 1848, which defined and popularized the concept of communism.

Derivatives

• Communism (noun)
• Communistic (adjective)
• Communal (adjective)
• Communalize (verb)
• Communize (verb)

Synonyms

• Socialist
• Marxist
• Collectivist

Antonyms

• Capitalist
• Libertarian
• Individualist

Usage

The word "communist" is often used in both political and historical contexts. As a noun, it refers to a person who adheres to or advocates for the principles of communism, such as "He was a committed communist throughout his life." As an adjective, it can describe governments, parties, or movements that align with communist ideology, for example, "The communist government enacted radical economic reforms."

Related Terms

• Socialism: A political and economic system where the means of production are owned and regulated by the community as a whole.
• Marxism: The political and economic theories of Karl Marx, which advocate for the abolition of class systems.
• Proletariat: The working class, particularly in Marxist theory, which is seen as being exploited by the bourgeoisie (capitalist class).

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person who supports or advocates for communism: Refers to someone who believes in or promotes the establishment of a classless society where property is owned collectively.
  • Example: "She identified herself as a communist during the political debate."

Adjective

• Relating to or supporting communism: Describes anything associated with the principles or policies of communism.
  • Example: "The country’s communist party has held power for several decades."