anarchist

UK: ˈænəkɪst | US: ˈænərkɪst

Definition
  1. n. a person who advocates or seeks to achieve anarchy (the absence of government or societal hierarchy)

  2. n. someone who rejects authority, rules, or established systems

Structure
an <without>arch <rule/government>ist <person who practices>
Etymology

anarchist = an<without> + arch<rule/government> + ist<person who practices>

  • an (from Greek an-, meaning "without")
  • arch (from Greek arkhos, meaning "rule" or "leader")
  • ist (suffix denoting a person who practices or believes in something)

Etymology Origin:
The word "anarchist" originates from Greek anarkhos ("without a ruler"), combining an- (negation) + arkhos (ruler). It entered English via French anarchiste in the early 17th century, initially describing political opposition to centralized authority. The suffix -ist later standardized its usage for individuals advocating anarchism. The term reflects a logical progression: "no rule" → "one who opposes rule."

Examples
  1. The anarchist protested against all forms of government control.

  2. Many anarchists believe in voluntary cooperation instead of laws.

  3. The 19th-century anarchist Mikhail Bakunin influenced socialist movements.

  4. Critics often mislabel violent rebels as anarchists.

  5. Her writings reveal her identity as a pacifist anarchist.