fascism
UK: ˈfæʃ.ɪ.zəm | US: ˈfæʃ.ɪ.zəm
n. A political ideology characterized by authoritarian nationalism, dictatorial power, and suppression of opposition.
n. (broadly) Any extreme authoritarian or oppressive system or behavior.
fascism = fasc<symbol of authority> + ism<ideological system>
- fasc (from Italian fascio, meaning "bundle" or "group," derived from Latin fascis "bundle of rods," symbolizing unity and authority in ancient Rome).
- ism (suffix denoting a distinctive practice, system, or ideology, from Greek -ismos).
Etymology Origin:
The term fascism originates from the Italian fascismo, rooted in the Latin fascis—a bundle of rods wrapped around an axe, carried by Roman magistrates as a symbol of collective strength and judicial power. In 20th-century Italy, Mussolini adopted this imagery to represent the unity and authoritarian control of his regime. The suffix -ism formalized it as a political ideology. The word’s evolution reflects a literal-to-abstract shift: from a physical symbol of authority to a system enforcing absolute state power.
Fascism rose in Europe during the interwar period, exploiting economic instability.
Critics argue that the policy echoes the suppression tactics of fascism.
The regime’s propaganda machine was central to maintaining fascism.
Scholars debate whether fascism can resurge in modern democracies.
His speech condemned all forms of fascism as threats to freedom.