ochlocracy

noun

och·​loc·​ra·​cy ä-ˈklä-krə-sē How to pronounce ochlocracy (audio)
: government by the mob : mob rule
ochlocrat noun
ochlocratic adjective
or ochlocratical

Examples of ochlocracy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web More commonly, ochlocracy functions through the legitimate organs of the state or through other entities, such as businesses and professional associations. Kevin D. Williamson, National Review, 6 June 2019

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'ochlocracy.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Greek & Middle French; Middle French ochlocratie, from Greek ochlokratia, from ochlos mob + -kratia -cracy

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ochlocracy was in 1594

Dictionary Entries Near ochlocracy

Cite this Entry

“Ochlocracy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ochlocracy. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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