demagogue Definition
a political leader who seeks support by appealing to the desires and prejudices of ordinary people rather than by using rational argument.
Using demagogue: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "demagogue" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The politician was accused of being a demagogue who manipulated the public's fears.
Example
He was a charismatic demagogue who could sway crowds with his speeches.
Example
The demagogue promised to solve all the country's problems with simple solutions.
Example
She was a demagogue who used emotional appeals to gain power.
demagogue Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for demagogue
- agitator
- firebrand
- instigator
- provocateur
- rabble-rouser
Phrases with demagogue
speech or writing that appeals to people's emotions and prejudices rather than their rational side
Example
The candidate's demagogic rhetoric was criticized for being divisive and misleading.
demagogic tactics
manipulative methods used by a demagogue to gain support, often by exploiting people's fears and prejudices
Example
The demagogue's use of demagogic tactics was seen as dangerous and unethical.
an emotional appeal made by a demagogue to gain support, often by playing on people's fears and prejudices
Example
The demagogue's demagogic appeal to nationalism was criticized for being xenophobic and divisive.
Origins of demagogue
from Greek 'dēmagōgos', meaning 'leader of the people'
Summary: demagogue in Brief
The term 'demagogue' [ˈdɛməɡɒɡ] refers to a political leader who gains support by appealing to the emotions and prejudices of ordinary people, rather than through rational argument. Demagogues are known for their charismatic speeches and manipulative tactics, which can be divisive and misleading. The term extends into phrases like 'demagogic rhetoric,' referring to speech that appeals to emotions rather than reason.
