/dem"euh gog', -gawg'/ , n. , v. , demagogued, demagoguing .
n.
1. a person, esp. an orator or political leader, who gains power and popularity by arousing the emotions, passions, and prejudices of the people.
2. (in ancient times) a leader of the people.
v.t.
3. to treat or manipulate (a political issue) in the manner of a demagogue; obscure or distort with emotionalism, prejudice, etc.
v.i.
4. to speak or act like a demagogue.
Also, demagog .
[ 1640-50; demagogós a leader of the people, popular leader, equiv. to dêm ( os ) people + agogós leading, guiding; see -AGOGUE ]