demagog

[ˈdɛməɡɒɡ]

demagog Definition

• 1. a political leader who seeks support by appealing to popular desires and prejudices rather than by using rational argument
• 2. a person, especially an orator or political leader, who gains power and popularity by arousing the emotions, passions, and prejudices of the people

Using demagog: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "demagog" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The politician was accused of being a demagogue who manipulated the public with his speeches.

• Example

  The demagog's inflammatory rhetoric led to violence in the streets.

• Example

  The demagog's supporters were fiercely loyal despite his controversial statements.

demagog Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for demagog

• agitator
• firebrand
• provocateur
• inciter
• rabble-rouser

Antonyms for demagog

• statesman
• diplomat

Phrases with demagog

• demagogic tactics

  methods used by a demagogue to manipulate the public's emotions and prejudices

  Example

  The candidate's demagogic tactics included using fear-mongering and scapegoating to rally his base.

• demagogic speech

  a speech that appeals to the emotions and prejudices of the audience rather than using rational argument

  Example

  The demagog's speech was filled with fiery rhetoric and emotional appeals, but lacked substance.

• demagogic appeal

  an appeal to the emotions and prejudices of the audience rather than using rational argument

  Example

  The demagog's demagogic appeal to nationalism and xenophobia resonated with some voters, but turned off others.

Origins of demagog

from French 'démagogue', from Greek 'dēmagōgos', from 'dēmos' (the people) + 'agōgos' (leading)

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Summary: demagog in Brief

'Demagog' [ˈdɛməɡɒɡ] refers to a political leader or orator who manipulates the public's emotions and prejudices to gain power and popularity. It is often associated with inflammatory rhetoric and appeals to nationalism and xenophobia. Examples include 'The politician was accused of being a demagogue who manipulated the public with his speeches.' 'Demagog' extends into phrases like 'demagogic tactics,' denoting methods used to manipulate the public, and 'demagogic speech,' referring to speeches that lack substance.