reactionary
UK: riˈækʃənəri | US: riˈækʃəneri
adj. opposing political or social progress or reform; favoring a return to an earlier system
n. a person who holds reactionary views
The word "reactionary" originates from the French "réactionnaire," coined during the French Revolution to describe those opposing revolutionary changes. It combines "re-" (back, against), "act" (to do), and "-ionary" (pertaining to), reflecting resistance to progressive movements by advocating a return to traditional systems. The term captures the tension between change and conservatism in political discourse.
His reactionary policies sought to undo decades of social reform.
Critics accused the group of being reactionary for resisting modern education.
The revolution was met with fierce opposition from reactionary forces.
She dismissed the proposal as a reactionary attempt to preserve outdated norms.
The party's platform appealed to reactionary voters nostalgic for past eras.