reactionary
|re-ac-tion-ar-y|
C1
🇺🇸
/riˈækʃəˌnɛri/
🇬🇧
/riˈækʃənəri/
opposition to change
Etymology
Etymology Information
'reactionary' originates from the French word 'réactionnaire,' which is derived from 'réaction,' meaning 'reaction.'
Historical Evolution
'réactionnaire' was adopted into English as 'reactionary' in the early 19th century.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it referred to someone who reacted against change, and it has retained this meaning in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who is opposed to political or social progress or reform.
He was labeled a reactionary for his views on social issues.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 1
opposing political or social progress or reform.
The reactionary forces resisted the new policies.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42