demagogue

or dem·a·gog

[ dem-uh-gog, -gawg ]

noun

1. a person, especially an orator or political leader, who gains power and popularity by arousing the emotions, passions, and prejudices of the people.
2. (in ancient times) a leader of the people.

verb (used with object)

, dem·a·gogued, dem·a·gogu·ing.

1. 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.

1. to speak or act like a demagogue.

demagogue

/ ˈdɛməˌɡɒɡ /

noun

1. a political agitator who appeals with crude oratory to the prejudice and passions of the mob
2. (esp in the ancient world) any popular political leader or orator

demagogue

1. A politician who seeks to win and hold office by appeals to mass prejudice . Demagogues often use lies and distortion. ( See Adolf Hitler and Joseph Stalin .)

Word History and Origins

Origin of demagogue¹

1640–50; < Greek dēmagōgós a leader of the people, popular leader, equivalent to dêm ( os ) people + agōgós leading, guiding; -agogue

Word History and Origins

Origin of demagogue¹

C17: from Greek dēmagōgos people's leader, from dēmos people + agein to lead

Example Sentences

Authoritarians, fascists, autocrats, and demagogues actively encourage such malaise and surrender and related sentiments and behavior.

From Salon

A demagogue brings forth the darkest energies for his or her followers.

From Salon

In history the idea of domestic enemies is most closely associated with Republican Sen. Joseph McCarthy, the disgraced demagogue of the early Cold War era.

From Los Angeles Times

Trump, like other demagogues and authoritarians, was more likely testing boundaries and priming his followers for action.

From Salon

Perhaps it was inevitable that a celebrity demagogue and pathological liar would take the mantle of "history's actor" and turn it into political World Wide Wrestling but the consequences of this little experiment are dire.

From Salon

Related Words

• agitator
• firebrand