Machiavellian

Ma·chi·a·vel·lian

adj \ˌma-kē-ə-ˈve-lē-ən, -ˈvel-yən\

Definition of MACHIAVELLIAN

1

: of or relating to Machiavelli or Machiavellianism

2

: suggesting the principles of conduct laid down by Machiavelli; specifically : marked by cunning, duplicity, or bad faith

— Machiavellian noun

Examples of MACHIAVELLIAN

1. a Machiavellian battle for control of the company
2. <yet another tale of a power-mad dictator with a Machiavellian plan to take over the world>

Origin of MACHIAVELLIAN

Niccolo Machiavelli

First Known Use: 1572

Related to MACHIAVELLIAN

Synonyms: cutthroat, immoral, unprincipled, unconscionable, unethical, unscrupulous

Antonyms: ethical, moral, principled, scrupulous

Related Words: merciless, pitiless, remorseless, ruthless; crooked, deceitful, dishonest, jackleg, knavish; corrupt, debased, debauched, decadent, degenerate, degraded, demoralized, depraved, dissipated, libertine, licentious, profligate; cheapjack, dog-eat-dog, opportunistic; calculating, scheming, sharp

Near Antonyms: conscientious, good, honorable, just, noble, righteous, virtuous

[+]more[-]hide

Other Government and Politics Terms

agent provocateur, agitprop, autarky, cabal, egalitarianism, federalism, hegemony, plenipotentiary, popular sovereignty, socialism

Rhymes with MACHIAVELLIAN

Pantagruelian