Democracy
/dɪˈmɒk.rə.si/noun
A system of government in which power is vested in the people, who rule either directly or through freely elected representatives.
Did you know?In ancient Athens, democracy was so radical that it was seen as a challenge to the divine order, where the 'demos' (common people) could wield power previously reserved for the aristocracy and gods.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
δημοκρατία (dēmokratía)
“Rule by the people.”
14th Century
Middle French
démocratie
“Adoption of the term from Greek into a more modern context, referring to collective governance.”
16th Century
Latin
democratia
“Latin adaptation of the Greek term, used in political writings.”
Modern English
English
democracy
“Establishment of the term in English political discourse, emphasizing popular sovereignty.”
Explore more surprising origins