I. noun
or dem·a·gog ˈ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ˌgäg sometimes -gȯg
( -s )
Etymology: Greek dēmagōgos, from dēm- dem- + agōgos leading, from agein to lead — more at agent
1. : a leader or orator in ancient times who championed the cause of the common people : a leader of the popular or plebeian party or faction in the state
2. : one who employs demagogic methods ; especially : a political leader who seeks to gain personal or partisan advantage by specious or extravagant claims, promises, or charges : rabble-rouser
play statesman one moment and demagogue the next — Economist
II. intransitive verb
or demagog “
( -ed/-ing/-s )
: to act the part of a demagogue : behave like a demagogue
III. verb
transitive verb
: to treat (as an issue) in a demagogic manner