antiestablishment

[ an-tee-i-stab-lish-muhnt, an-tahy- ]

adjective

1. opposed to or working against the existing power structure or mores, as of society or government:

   Antiestablishment candidates promised to disband the army, Congress, and the cabinet if elected.

Word History and Origins

Origin of antiestablishment¹

First recorded in 1955–60; anti- + establishment

Example Sentences

The “Tlatelolco massacre,” during which Mexican security forces opened fire on demonstrators, unfolded amid the global upheaval of the 1960s, notable for antiestablishment, antiwar and civil rights protests.

From Los Angeles Times

Officials are increasingly worried about the deepening strands of left- and right-wing venom rooted in antiestablishment anger and amplified by social media that are testing the government’s ability to track militants like Clendaniel and Russell.

From Los Angeles Times

Brand, who has refashioned himself as an antiestablishment commentator and given a platform to conspiracy theories about vaccines and the 9/11 attacks, said he was being targeted by the “mainstream media” because of his views.

From Los Angeles Times

His blend of conspiracy theories, explicit racism, anti-interventionism, culture wars, and antiestablishment, apocalyptic rhetoric help account for his continued strength within the Republican Party and help explain why none of his opponents have been able to dislodge him from the top slot yet.

From Salon

Carper faced off with Arlett after trouncing a progressive challenger in a Democratic primary, stemming an antiestablishment tide hoping to move the Democratic party to the left.

From Seattle Times