I. | ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷|velēən, -lyən adjective
Usage: usually capitalized
Etymology: Niccolò Machiavelli + English -an
1. : of or relating to Machiavelli or his political theory (as the doctrine that any means however lawless or unscrupulous may be justifiably employed by a ruler in order to establish and maintain a strong central government)
2. : resembling or suggesting the principles of conduct laid down by Machiavelli : characterized by political cunning, duplicity, or bad faith
II. noun
( -s )
Usage: usually capitalized
: an adherent to the political doctrine of Machiavelli : a person characterized by Machiavellian behavior especially in political matters