ochlocracy

noun

och·loc·ra·cy ä-ˈklä-krə-sē

: government by the mob : mob rule

ochlocrat

ˈä-klə-ˌkrat

noun

ochlocratic

ˌä-klə-ˈkra-tik

adjective

or ochlocratical

ˌä-klə-ˈkra-ti-kəl

Examples of ochlocracy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

More commonly, ochlocracy functions through the legitimate organs of the state or through other entities, such as businesses and professional associations. —

Kevin D. Williamson, National Review, 6 June 2019

Word History

Etymology

Greek & Middle French; Middle French ochlocratie, from Greek ochlokratia, from ochlos mob + -kratia -cracy

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of ochlocracy was in 1594

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Ochlocracy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ochlocracy. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

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