demagog
/ˈdɛməɡɑɡ/
noun
- A political leader who tries to win support by using popular prejudices, false claims, and emotional arguments rather than reasoned debate.
- The demagog stirred up anger against immigrants during his speech.
- Many historians warn that a skilled demagog can weaken a democracy.
- She accused her opponent of acting like a demagog by spreading fear about the economy.
Synonyms
Antonyms
verb
- To act or speak like a demagog; to appeal to people's emotions and prejudices for political gain.
- Experienced politicians know it is dangerous to demagog on complex issues.
- The candidate tried to demagog the crowd by blaming all problems on a minority group.
- Instead of offering real solutions, he chose to demagog about national security.