undemocratically
|un-de-moc-ra-tic-al-ly|
🇺🇸
/ˌʌndɛməˈkrætɪkli/
🇬🇧
/ˌʌndeməˈkrætɪkli/
(undemocratic)
not in line with democracy
Etymology
'undemocratically' originates from English, specifically formed from the adjective 'undemocratic' with the adverbial suffix '-ally', where the prefix 'un-' meant 'not' and 'democratic' traces to Greek 'demokratia' (from 'demos' meaning 'people' and 'kratos' meaning 'power' or 'rule').
'demokratia' (Greek) influenced Latin and later French forms (e.g. 'démocratie') and entered English as 'democracy' and 'democratic'; the adjective 'undemocratic' was created by adding the negating prefix 'un-' to 'democratic', and ultimately the adverb 'undemocratically' formed by adding '-ally' to the adjective.
Originally related to 'rule by the people' (democratic); with the prefix 'un-' the sense shifted to 'not democratic', and the adverbial form now means 'in a not democratic way.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a manner that is not democratic; without following democratic principles, procedures, or participation.
The law was passed undemocratically, without public consultation or fair voting procedures.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/10/24 09:58
