Democratic

Definition

Democratic refers to anything related to democracy, a system of government in which power is vested in the people and exercised through elected representatives. It can also describe attitudes, policies, or actions that promote social equality, fairness, and participation by all individuals.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌdɛməˈkrætɪk/
• Respelling: DEM-uh-KRAT-ik

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌdɛməˈkrætɪk/
• Respelling: DEM-uh-KRAT-ik

The pronunciation of "democratic" is consistent across both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "democratic" comes from the Greek word "dēmokratia," which is composed of "dēmos" (the people) and "kratos" (power or rule). The term was first used in ancient Greece to describe a system of government in which the people had authority. It entered English in the late 16th century and is used to describe systems and principles that uphold popular sovereignty and equality.

Derivatives

• Democracy (noun)
• Democratize (verb)
• Democratization (noun)
• Democrat (noun)
• Democratically (adverb)

Synonyms

• Representative
• Egalitarian
• Participatory

Antonyms

• Autocratic
• Authoritarian
• Dictatorial

Usage

The term "democratic" is most often used in political and social contexts to describe systems of governance, institutions, or policies that prioritize the involvement of citizens, equal rights, and shared decision-making. It is also used more broadly to describe attitudes or processes that are inclusive and promote fairness and participation.

Related Terms

• Republic: A system of government in which power rests with elected individuals representing the citizen body.
• Liberty: The state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions.
• Constitution: A set of fundamental principles or established precedents according to which a state is governed.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Relating to or supporting democracy: Refers to principles, practices, or systems that promote popular participation and equality.
  • Example: "The country adopted a democratic constitution after years of authoritarian rule."
• Favoring or characterized by social equality: Describes attitudes or policies that promote fairness and equal rights.
  • Example: "The organization has a democratic approach, giving every member a voice in decision-making."