socialist
UK: ˈsəʊʃəlɪst | US: ˈsoʊʃəlɪst
n. 1. An advocate or follower of socialism, a political/economic system advocating collective or governmental ownership of production and distribution.
n. 2. (Historical) A member of a socialist political party or movement.
adj. Relating to or characteristic of socialism or socialists.
socialist = social<relating to society> + ist<one who practices>
- social: Derived from Latin socius (companion, ally), evolving to mean "pertaining to human society."
- ist: A suffix from Greek -istes (via Latin -ista), denoting "a practitioner" or "adherent of a ideology."
Etymology Origin:
The term emerged in early 19th-century Europe, combining social (rooted in societal organization) with -ist to describe proponents of collective economic systems. It reflects industrialization-era critiques of capitalism, emphasizing communal welfare. The morphemes retain clear boundaries, making the word easily analyzable.
The socialist candidate proposed universal healthcare reforms.
Many European nations have strong socialist traditions.
She identifies as a democratic socialist.
Early socialist thinkers criticized wealth inequality.
The party’s manifesto aligns with socialist principles.