Term: demagogue
demagogue (noun): a political leader who seeks support by appealing to the desires and prejudices of ordinary people rather than by using rational argument.
synonyms: firebrand, rabble-rouser, provocateur, populist (in certain contexts).
pronunciation: /ˈdem.ə.ɡɒɡ/
translation: demagogs
example: The historian described the leader as a demagogue who used fear and nationalistic rhetoric to consolidate power during the economic crisis.
other words from this root: demagoguery (noun), demagogic (adjective).
Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary
demagogue (noun)1.
a leader who makes use of popular and false claims and promises in order to gain power - prejudices
2.
a leader the cause of the common people in ancient times - championing
intransitive verb
transitive verb
to behave like a demagogue to treat (as an issue) in the manner of a demagogue
Merriam-Webster Online Thesaurus
demagogue (noun)a person who stirs up public feelings especially of discontent
SYNONYMS:
demagogue ( demagog), exciter, firebrand, fomenter, incendiary, inciter, instigator, kindler, provocateur, rabble-rouserRELATED WORDS:
demonstrator, marcher, objector, picketer, protester ( protestor); advocate, apostle, backer, booster, champion, exponent, persuader, promoter, proponent, reformer, reformist, supporter; alarmist, extremist, insurgent, insurrectionist, radical, rebel, revolter, revolutionary, revolutionist, subversive, troublemaker; goader, prodder, prompter, provoker; agent provocateurNEAR ANTONYMS:
peacemaker, reconciler, uniter