What does democratic mean?
"Democratic" is an adjective describing anything related to, supportive of, or characteristic of democracy — the principle that political power rests with the people, whether exercised directly or through elected representatives. In its primary sense, it applies to governments, institutions, elections, and processes: a democratic state holds free and fair elections and protects civil liberties. Beyond formal politics, the word extends to everyday contexts, describing organizations, workplaces, families, or leadership styles that emphasize equal participation and shared decision-making rather than top-down control. The word derives from the Greek demokratikos, built on demos ("the people") and kratos ("power" or "rule"), reflecting concepts debated since ancient Athens. It contrasts with terms like authoritarian, autocratic, and dictatorial, which describe concentrated or unaccountable power. Because it signals fairness, inclusion, and accountability, "democratic" carries strongly positive connotations, though its precise meaning can be contested in political debate.
Relating to, supporting, or characteristic of democracy, especially government by the people through elected representatives.
"The new constitution established a democratic system with regular multiparty elections."
Often appears in political and journalistic writing; when capitalized alongside 'Party,' it takes on a specific partisan meaning in U.S. politics.
Promoting equal rights, participation, and shared decision-making among members of a group or society.
"He ran the club in a democratic spirit, putting every major decision to a member vote."
Commonly applied outside politics to organizations, leadership styles, and social arrangements.
The word 'democratic' comes from Greek roots meaning literally 'the people' plus 'power' — demos + kratos — making it one of history's most radical ideas packed into two syllables.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of democratic
"Democratic" derives from the Greek demokratikos, formed from demos ("the people") and kratos ("power" or "rule"). These roots combined in ancient Greek to produce demokratia, the term for the system of government practiced in classical Athens. English adopted the word via French démocratique during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, as political thinkers revived Greek models to debate governance. Cognates sharing the same root include "democracy," "democrat," and "demagogue."
Related word forms
How democratic is actually used
"Democratic" carries broadly positive connotations in political discourse, though it can be used critically or ironically. When capitalized and paired with "Party," it refers specifically to U.S. politics and is distinct from the general sense. The word spans formal political commentary and everyday descriptions of inclusive decision-making.
Easily confused with democratic
"Democratic" describes systems or principles of rule by the people generally; "Democrat" (or capitalized "Democratic") refers specifically to a member of, or relating to, the Democratic Party in United States politics.