Machiavellianism

noun

Ma·​chi·​a·​vel·​lian·​ism ˌma-kē-ə-ˈve-lē-ə-ˌni-zəm How to pronounce Machiavellianism (audio)
-ˈvel-yə-ˌni-zəm
: the political theory of Machiavelli
especially : the view that politics is amoral and that any means however unscrupulous can justifiably be used in achieving political power

Examples of Machiavellianism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Conversely, men score higher than women on dark side personality traits, such narcissism, psychopathy, Machiavellianism, and aggression (especially unprovoked), which account for much of the toxic and destructive behaviors displayed by powerful leaders - usually male - who derail. Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2024 Even the leaders who are humanitarian have to have some Machiavellianism. CBS News, 29 Mar. 2023

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

Word History

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Machiavellianism was in 1607

Dictionary Entries Near Machiavellianism

Cite this Entry

“Machiavellianism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Machiavellianism. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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