New Left

noun

1. (sometimes lowercase) a radical leftist political movement active especially during the 1960s and 1970s, composed largely of college students and young intellectuals whose goals included racial equality, de-escalation of the arms race, nonintervention in foreign affairs, and other major changes in the political, economic, social, and educational systems.

New Left

noun

1. a loose grouping of left-wing radicals, esp among students, that arose in many countries after 1960

New Left

1. A radical movement of the 1960s and 1970s. New Leftists opposed the military-industrial complex and involvement of the United States in the Vietnam War ; they urged more public attention to conditions of black people and the poor. New Leftists were less theoretical than communists and generally did not admire the Soviet Union . But many of them were interested in Maoism , and they spoke strongly for “participatory democracy.” ( See sit-ins .)

Other Words From

• New Leftist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of New Left¹

First recorded in 1960; phrase apparently introduced by U.S. sociologist C. Wright Mills (1916–62)

Example Sentences

The combination of an illegal chop block from guard Sam Mustipher — a backup center who was elevated from the practice squad Saturday — and holding by new left tackle Jamaree Salyer forced the Chargers to settle for a long field goal on their second drive.

From Los Angeles Times

Now, with a new left side of the line, he will face a 49ers pass rush led by end Nick Bosa.

From Los Angeles Times

He is supremely fit and has been reinvigorated by his shiny new left knee, though he has recently been kiboshed by a dicky hamstring.

From BBC

Queer members of the New Left made coming out into a clarion call as they demanded gay power and liberation in the late 1960s, and it has remained a key strategy of queer activists ever since — a declaration not just of pride, but of purpose and personhood.

From Los Angeles Times

The Mariners’ new left fielder Monday is a familiar figure.

From Seattle Times