demagogue — a political leader who seeks support by appealing to popular desires and prejudices rather than by using rational argument
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a political leader who seeks support by appealing to popular desires and prejudices rather than by using rational argument
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈdeməɡɑːɡ/
Example Sentences
- The history teacher warned students about how demagogues manipulate public opinion through fear.
- My uncle thinks every politician is a demagogue, which makes family dinners quite awkward.
- The social media influencer turned into a demagogue, using memes to promote extreme political views.
demagogue
NOUN[/ˈdeməɡɑːɡ/]
a political leader who seeks support by appealing to popular desires and prejudices rather than by using rational argument

The demagogue whips the crowd into fury with wild promises and pointed fingers.

The demagogue ignores the catalog, dismissing rational dialog!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From ancient Greek 'demagogos', originally meaning 'leader of the people' in a neutral sense. Over time, it developed negative connotations as it came to describe politicians who manipulate popular emotions rather than appeal to reason.
Breakdown
demo- (people) + -agogue (leader/guide, from 'agein' meaning to lead)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The history teacher warned students about how demagogues manipulate public opinion through fear.”
“My uncle thinks every politician is a demagogue, which makes family dinners quite awkward.”
“The social media influencer turned into a demagogue, using memes to promote extreme political views.”
“Ancient Athens struggled with demagogues who promised citizens everything they wanted to hear.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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