n. (pl. -ies)
1. a a system of government by the whole population, usu. through elected representatives. b a State so governed. c any organization governed on democratic principles.
2 a classless and tolerant form of society.
3 US a the principles of the Democratic Party. b its members.
Etymology: F d{eacute}mocratie f. LL democratia f. Gk demokratia f. demos the people + -CRACY