Democracy
/dɪˈmɒkrəsi/
Definitions
2 meaningsA form of government where the people have a say in how the country is run, often by electing representatives.
/dɪˈmɒkrəsi/
A system of government by the whole population or all the eligible members of a state, typically through elected representatives.
The core principles of democracy include freedom of speech and the right to vote.
💡 Simply: Imagine everyone in your class gets to vote on what game to play at recess. That's kind of like democracy – the people get to choose!
👶 For kids: A way of running a country where people get to vote and choose their leaders.
More Examples
Many countries around the world are struggling to transition to democracy.
A stable democracy requires an educated and informed citizenry.
How It's Used
"The United States is a democracy."
"Many nations are striving to establish and maintain a democracy."
A country or state that practices a democratic form of government.
/dɪˈmɒkrəsi/
A state governed by such a system.
The democracy is a beacon of freedom for many.
💡 Simply: The United States is a democracy, meaning a place where the people have a voice.
👶 For kids: A country that lets people vote.
More Examples
The fragility of the democracy is a constant concern.
The defense of democracy is a top priority for many nations.
How It's Used
"The democracy has faced several challenges in recent years."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
direct democracy
A form of democracy where citizens directly vote on policies and laws, rather than electing representatives.
"In a system of direct democracy, every citizen has the opportunity to vote on important decisions."
representative democracy
A form of democracy in which citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf.
"The United States operates as a representative democracy, with elected officials making policy decisions."
From Greek *dēmokratia* (δημοκρατία), derived from *dēmos* (δῆμος, "people") and *kratos* (κράτος, "power" or "rule"). Its historical development traces to ancient Athens, where the concept of rule by the people was first developed.
The term 'democracy' has evolved over time, initially referring to direct rule by the citizens of a city-state, like Athens. It later shifted to encompass representative forms of government.
Memory tip
Think of 'demos' (people) and 'kratos' (power) – power of the people!
Word Origin
"Rule by the people"