Synonyms of democracy

democracy

noun

di-ˈmä-krə-sē 

as in republic

government in which the supreme power is held by the people and used by them directly or indirectly through representation

under our democracy the people have some control over their lives by being able to select their own political leaders

Synonyms & Similar Words

• republic
• sovereignty
• self-rule
• self-government
• autonomy
• pure democracy
• home rule
• self-determination

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• dictatorship
• tyranny
• monarchy
• despotism
• totalitarianism
• monocracy

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of democracy

In countries with eroding democracies, many people have watched Hungary over the past three months make rapid reforms under a new prime minister, Péter Magyar. — The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 24 Aug. 2026

Criminalizing editorial judgment sets a dangerous precedent and undermines Bangladesh’s reputation as a democracy. — ABC News, 24 Aug. 2026

Finally, Weinberger’s final two principles are critical, especially in a democracy. — Tom Jurkowsky, Baltimore Sun, 23 Aug. 2026

The idea that the war was about democracy is disputed by the rise of dictators in Russia, Italy, Germany, Spain and France after the war. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 22 Aug. 2026