Regime

Definition

A regime is a system or planned way of doing things, especially one imposed from above, typically referring to a government or a form of government. It can also denote a period during which a particular administration or system prevails.

Parts of Speech

• noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /reɪˈʒiːm/
• Respelling: ray-ZHEEM (with "ray" as in "ray," and "ZHEEM" as in "seem" with a 'zh' sound)

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /reɪˈʒiːm/ or /rɪˈʒiːm/
• Respelling: ray-ZHEEM or ri-ZHEEM (with "ray" or "ri" as in "rid," and "ZHEEM" as in "seem" with a 'zh' sound)

In both dialects, "regime" is commonly pronounced with the stress on the second syllable, "ZHEEM." The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English, clearly articulating the word with a focus on the "ZHEEM" syllable. The alternate pronunciation in British English with "ri" reflects a variation commonly heard in different accents within the UK.

Etymology

The word "regime" derives from the French "régime," which originated from the Latin "regimen" meaning "rule" or "guidance," from "regere" (to rule). It entered the English language in the early 18th century, maintaining a close association with governance and control.

Derivatives

• Regimen (noun)
• Regime change (noun phrase)
• Regimentation (noun)
• Regimism (noun)

Synonyms

• Government
• Administration
• Rule

Antonyms

None.

Usage

The term "regime" is often used in a political context to describe the government in power, particularly in cases where it implies authoritative or dictatorial characteristics. It can also refer to a system or planned way of diet, exercise, or medical treatment.

Related Terms

• Dictatorship
• Governance
• System
• Regime change
• Policy

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Government or Administration: Refers to the organization that is the governing authority of a political unit, the ruling power in a political society, and the apparatus that administers and enforces the laws. It often carries a connotation of authoritarianism.
• Specific Period of Rule: Describes the period during which a particular government or administration is in power.
• System or Methodology: In a broader sense, a regime can refer to any systematic way of managing things, such as a dietary regime for nutritional management or a treatment regime in medical contexts.

Examples of Usage

• The military regime lasted for over a decade.
• She followed a strict dietary regime to improve her health.
• The new regime implemented several controversial policies.