revisionist

UK: rɪˈvɪʒənɪst | US: rɪˈvɪʒənɪst

Definition

  1. n. A person who advocates or engages in the revision of established theories, policies, or historical accounts, often with a critical or unconventional perspective.

  2. adj. Relating to or characteristic of revisionism, especially in politics or history.

Structure
re <again>vis <see>ionist <noun suffix denoting adherent>
Etymology

The word "revisionist" combines Latin-derived morphemes:

  • "Re-" (again) signals repetition or reevaluation.
  • "Vis" (from Latin videre, "to see") implies examination or perspective.
  • "-ionist" (via French -ioniste) denotes a practitioner or supporter.
    Originally tied to Marxist debates (late 19th century), it described those revising orthodox doctrines. The term later broadened to critique any reinterpretation of accepted narratives.
Examples

  1. The historian was labeled a revisionist for challenging traditional wartime narratives.

  2. Revisionist theories about the event sparked intense academic debate.

  3. Her revisionist approach to the novel reinterpreted its protagonist as a villain.

  4. Critics accused the film of promoting a revisionist view of history.

  5. The politician’s revisionist stance alienated party traditionalists.