reformist
UK: rɪˈfɔːmɪst | US: rɪˈfɔːrmɪst
n. a person who advocates for political or social reform
adj. relating to or characteristic of reform or reformers
reformist = reform<to improve> + ist<one who practices>
- reform (from Latin reformare: re- "again" + formare "to shape") → "to improve by change"
- ist (from Latin -ista, Greek -istes) → suffix denoting "one who practices or advocates"
Etymology Origin:
The word reformist emerged in the early 19th century, combining reform (rooted in the idea of reshaping systems) with -ist, a suffix often used to label proponents of movements (e.g., socialist, artist). It reflects a pragmatic approach to change—neither radical nor conservative, but incremental.
The reformist politician proposed gradual tax adjustments.
Her reformist views clashed with the party’s traditionalists.
The magazine caters to reformist thinkers in education.
Critics accused him of being a reformist rather than a revolutionary.
The union’s reformist faction gained influence after the strike.