Fascist
/ˈfæʃɪst/
Definitions
2 meaningsA person who supports or advocates for fascism. This includes strong central government, suppression of opposition, and often, extreme nationalism.
/ˈfæʃɪst/
A follower of a political philosophy characterized by authoritarian nationalism and often racial supremacy.
The dictator was accused of being a fascist and suppressing human rights.
💡 Simply: Imagine a person who strongly believes their country or group is the best, wants to control everything, and doesn’t like people who disagree with them. They often believe in a strong leader and strict rules, like a school principal who always has to be right.
👶 For kids: Someone who wants to be in charge and makes everyone do things their way, and only thinks their group is good.
More Examples
Many considered the leader to be a fascist due to his policies.
How It's Used
"Historians study the rise of fascists in pre-World War II Europe."
"The term 'fascist' is often used to describe leaders who embody similar characteristics of historical fascist regimes."
Relating to or characteristic of fascism; authoritarian, nationalistic, and often involving suppression of opposition.
/ˈfæʃɪst/
Relating to or characteristic of fascism.
The country was ruled by a fascist government that stifled freedom of speech.
💡 Simply: If something is 'fascist,' it means it's related to the idea of having a really strong, controlling government that puts the country above everything else. Think of a strict rule book where everyone has to follow the same rules.
👶 For kids: When something is like the way a person in charge wants to be in charge, where everyone has to do things their way.
More Examples
Critics described the new laws as fascist because they granted the government excessive power.
How It's Used
"The government implemented fascist policies, controlling all aspects of society."
"The book analyzes the rise of fascist regimes in the 20th century."
From Italian *fascista*, from *fascio* ('bundle, group'), from Latin *fascis* (bundle of rods, symbol of authority). Initially referred to members of the Italian Fascist Party.
The term gained prominence in the early 20th century, particularly in reference to Benito Mussolini's regime in Italy and later, other regimes with similar ideologies.
Memory tip
Think of someone who is a strong believer in a rigid, nationalistic system, often suppressing dissent.