Democracy

Definition

Democracy is a system of government where the citizens exercise power by voting. In a democracy, the population chooses its leaders or makes decisions through majority rule, often through elected representatives. It also generally upholds the principle of equal rights and freedoms for all individuals.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈmɑːkrəsi/
• Respelling: dih-MAH-kruh-see

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈmɒkrəsi/
• Respelling: dih-MOK-ruh-see

The main difference between the American and British pronunciations of "democracy" lies in the vowel sounds in the second syllable.

Etymology

The word "democracy" is derived from the Greek term "dēmokratía," which combines "dēmos" meaning "people" and "kratos" meaning "power" or "rule." The term entered the English language in the late 16th century through French and Latin, maintaining its meaning of "rule by the people."

Derivatives

• Democratic (adjective)
• Democratize (verb)
• Democratization (noun)
• Democrat (noun)
• Democratically (adverb)

Synonyms

• Republic
• Self-government
• Popular sovereignty

Antonyms

• Autocracy
• Dictatorship
• Monarchy

Usage

The word "democracy" is widely used to refer to political systems where citizens participate in decision-making, either directly or through elected representatives. For example: "Many nations today are committed to the principles of democracy," or "The election was a testament to the strength of their democracy." It is also used in contrast with other forms of governance, such as autocracies and dictatorships.

Related Terms

• Democratic Republic: A system of government where the people elect representatives to govern on their behalf in a democratic manner.
• Constitutional Democracy: A form of democracy governed by a constitution that limits the powers of the government and guarantees certain rights to the people.
• Participatory Democracy: A model of democracy where individuals have direct involvement in decision-making rather than through elected representatives.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A system of government by the whole population or all eligible members, typically through elected representatives: Refers to the form of government where people have the power to make decisions, either directly or through representatives.
  • Example: "The country transitioned from a monarchy to a democracy after the revolution."
• The principles and practice of social equality and respect for individual rights: Refers to the ideology that upholds equality, freedom, and justice as core principles of governance.
  • Example: "The organization promotes democracy and human rights worldwide."