rightist

[ rahy-tist ]

adjective

, (sometimes initial capital letter)

1. of or relating to conservative or reactionary political views; noting or characteristic of the political Right.

noun

1. a member or supporter of the political Right; conservative or reactionary.

rightist

/ ˈraɪtɪst /

adjective

1. of, tending towards, or relating to the political right or its principles; conservative, traditionalist, or reactionary

noun

1. a person who supports or belongs to the political right

Derived Forms

• ˈrightism, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of rightist¹

First recorded in 1935–40; right + -ist

Example Sentences

They have also fed public disenchantment with the country’s political class as Portugal prepares to celebrate 50 years of democracy, following the Carnation Revolution that toppled a rightist dictatorship on April 25, 1974.

From Seattle Times

Mr. Macron has now deployed Mr. Attal, whose telegenic assurance and ready adaptability make him a natural protégé of the president, against the youthful rightist leader.

From New York Times

At home she pleased her rightist grassroots through measures to defend the traditional family, protect Italy's cultural heritage and try to stem migrant arrivals.

From Reuters

The tone of political discourse, even in mainstream politics, can contribute to forging ultra rightists, Lerner warned.

From Seattle Times

Several lawmakers from parties in Orpo's rightist coalition, which took office in mid-June, targeted journalist columnist Ida Eramaa in online comments over the weekend.

From Reuters

Related Words

• conservative
• traditionalist