leftist

UK: ˈlɛftɪst | US: ˈlɛftɪst

Definition
  1. n. a person who supports or advocates for left-wing political views, typically emphasizing social equality and government intervention.

  2. adj. relating to or characteristic of left-wing politics.

Structure
left <relating to the political left>ist <one who practices or believes in>
Etymology

The term "leftist" originates from the seating arrangement in the French National Assembly (1789), where revolutionaries sat on the left side, while conservatives sat on the right. "Left" became associated with progressive or radical ideologies, and the suffix "-ist" (from Latin "-ista" via French) denotes adherence to a belief or movement. Over time, "leftist" evolved to describe advocates of socialist, liberal, or egalitarian policies.

Examples
  1. Many young voters identify as leftists due to their support for universal healthcare.

  2. The leftist candidate proposed higher taxes on the wealthy.

  3. Critics argue that leftist policies may hinder economic growth.

  4. She writes articles from a leftist perspective.

  5. The party's platform has shifted further toward leftist ideals in recent years.