Egalitarian
ɪˌɡælɪˈtɛəriən
Definitions
2 meaningsRelating to or believing in the principle that all people are equal and deserve equal rights and opportunities.
ɪˌɡælɪˈtɛəriən
Believing in or relating to the principle of equality.
The company has an egalitarian culture where everyone's opinion is valued.
💡 Simply: Imagine a playground where everyone gets to play with all the toys and no one gets left out. That's egalitarian! It means everyone has the same chances and is treated fairly.
👶 For kids: It means everyone is treated the same and is equal, like everyone gets a turn to play.
More Examples
Egalitarian ideals are at the core of many democratic societies.
They advocate for egalitarian policies that aim to reduce income inequality.
How It's Used
"Egalitarian societies often strive to eliminate social hierarchies."
"The organization's egalitarian principles ensure all members have a voice."
A person who advocates or believes in egalitarian principles.
ɪˌɡælɪˈtɛəriən
A person who believes in the principle of equality.
The speaker was a staunch egalitarian, fighting for social justice.
💡 Simply: An egalitarian is someone who thinks everyone should be treated the same, and have the same opportunities. They want a world where everything is fair.
👶 For kids: Someone who believes everyone should be treated the same.
More Examples
The movement was led by a group of dedicated egalitarians.
As an egalitarian, she supported policies that aimed at income redistribution.
How It's Used
"As an egalitarian, he championed policies that promoted equal access to education."
"The conference brought together egalitarians from various backgrounds."
From French *égalitaire*, from *égal* meaning 'equal'. The concept of egalitarianism emerged in the 18th century, particularly during the Enlightenment and the French Revolution, emphasizing equal rights and opportunities for all individuals.
The term gained prominence in the 18th and 19th centuries with the rise of democratic and socialist movements.
Memory tip
Think 'equal garden' - a place where everyone has the same opportunities and is treated the same.