antifascism
|an-ti-fash-ism|
/ˌæn.tiˈfæʃ.ɪ.zəm/
opposition to fascism
Etymology
'antifascism' is formed from the prefix 'anti-' (from Greek, meaning 'against') + 'fascism' (from Italian 'fascismo', ultimately from Latin 'fascis' meaning 'bundle').
'fascism' developed from Italian 'fascismo' (from 'fascio'/'fascis'), and the compound 'antifascism' arose in the early 20th century to denote opposition to Italian fascism and similar movements, becoming more widely used in the 1920s–1930s.
Initially it specifically meant opposition to Italian fascism and Mussolini's movement; over time it broadened to mean opposition to fascist ideologies, parties, and authoritarian movements in general.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
opposition to fascism as a political ideology or movement.
Antifascism emerged as a major political force in 20th-century Europe.
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Noun 2
organized movements, groups, or activities aimed at resisting fascist parties or regimes.
Local antifascism groups organized counter-demonstrations.
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Noun 3
the political doctrine or stance of being against fascism (often associated with leftist or pluralist politics).
His antifascism shaped his writings and political activity.
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Last updated: 2025/08/31 23:01