Democracy

de-mok′ra-si, n. a form of government in which the supreme power is vested in the people collectively, and is administered by them or by officers appointed by them: the people, esp. the common people in the United States, the democratic party—also Democ′raty ( Milt. ).— n. Dem′ocrat , one who adheres to or promotes democracy as a principle: a member of the democratic party in the United States, who preserve carefully the local liberties of states and of individuals, opposing national centralisation, and supporting a wide franchise, low tariff duties for the interests of the revenue rather than protection, and a limited public expenditure.— adjs. Democrat′ic , -al , relating to democracy: insisting on equal rights and privileges for all.— adv. Democrat′ically .— adj. Democrat ifī′able , capable of being made democratic.— v.t. Democratise′ , to render democratic.— n. Democ′ratist , a democrat. [O. Fr.,—Gr. dēmokratia — dēmos , the people, and kratein , to rule— kratos , strength.]