Democrat
/ˈdɛm.ə.kræt/noun
A member of a political party advocating for democracy and social equality.
Did you know?The term 'Democrat' originates from the Greek word 'demokratia', which means 'rule by the people' — a concept deeply rooted in the philosophical debates of ancient Athens.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
δημοκρατία (demokratia)
“Rule by the people, a political system established in ancient Athens.”
4th Century
Latin
democratia
“Adoption of the Greek term by Latin speakers, retaining meaning of people’s rule.”
Middle Ages
Latin
democratia
“Used in ecclesiastical texts to discuss governance among communities.”
18th Century
English
Democrat
“Emergence of the term in English during the American and French revolutions, signifying advocates for popular sovereignty.”
19th Century
English
Democrat
“Formalization of the term as representing members of the Democratic Party in the United States.”
21st Century
English
Democrat
“Continued use as a label for political affiliation emphasizing democratic ideals.”
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