ideologue
UK: ˈaɪ.di.ə.lɒɡ | US: ˈaɪ.di.ə.lɑːɡ
n. a person who zealously advocates for a particular ideology, often rigidly or dogmatically.
ideologue = ideo<idea> + logue<speaker>
- ideo (from Greek idea "idea, form, pattern")
- logue (from Greek logos "speech, discourse," via French -logue "speaker")
Etymology Origin:
The word ideologue emerged in early 19th-century French (idéologue) to describe thinkers who rigidly adhered to abstract theories, particularly during the Enlightenment. It combines idea (intellectual concept) with -logue (speaker), reflecting someone who vocalizes or propagates ideological systems. Over time, it gained a slightly pejorative tone, implying inflexibility in belief.
The politician was dismissed as an ideologue for refusing to compromise on his extreme views.
She criticized the group for being led by ideologues rather than pragmatic problem-solvers.
The revolution was initially driven by intellectuals but later hijacked by ruthless ideologues.
His reputation as an economic ideologue made him unpopular among moderates.
The manifesto appealed to ideologues but alienated the general public.