demagogue
or dem·a·gog
[ dem-uh-gog, -gawg ]
/ ˈdɛm əˌgɒg, -ˌgɔg /
noun
a person, especially an orator or political leader, who gains power and popularity by arousing the emotions, passions, and prejudices of the people.
(in ancient times) a leader of the people.
verb (used with object), dem·a·gogued, dem·a·gogu·ing.
to treat or manipulate (a political issue) in the manner of a demagogue; obscure or distort with emotionalism, prejudice, etc.
verb (used without object), dem·a·gogued, dem·a·gogu·ing.
to speak or act like a demagogue.
Origin of demagogue
1640–50; < Greek
dēmagōgós a leader of the people, popular leader, equivalent to
dêm(os) people +
agōgós leading, guiding; see
-agogue
Words nearby demagogue
dely.,
dem,
dem.,
demagnetize,
demagogic,
demagogue,
demagoguery,
demagoguism,
demagogy,
demand,
demand bid
Example sentences from the Web for demagog
Moreover, the demagog and the corruptionist often work hand in hand.
State of the Union Addresses of Theodore Roosevelt |Theodore Roosevelt
British Dictionary definitions for demagog
demagogue
sometimes US demagog
/ (ˈdɛməˌɡɒɡ) /
noun
a political agitator who appeals with crude oratory to the prejudice and passions of the mob
(esp in the ancient world) any popular political leader or orator
Word Origin for demagogue
C17: from Greek
dēmagōgos people's leader, from
dēmos people +
agein to lead