# democracy

/dɪˈmɑkɹəsi/ (US) · /dɪmˈɒkɹəsi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/democracy
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. system of government

noun · CEFR B1

a way of ruling a country where everyone has a say, usually by voting for people to represent them.

For teachers: a system of government by the whole population or all the eligible members of a state, typically through elected representatives.

- In a healthy democracy, every citizen should have the right to vote in free elections.
- The transition from an authoritarian regime to a stable democracy requires the establishment of robust legal institutions and a free press.

### 2. a democratic country

noun · CEFR B1

a specific country that uses a democratic system.

For teachers: a state or nation governed under the principles of democracy.

- Many young democracies in the region are still developing their legal systems.
- The summit brought together leaders from several Western democracies to discuss international trade and security agreements.

### 3. fairness and equality

noun · CEFR B2

the belief that everyone in a group should be treated equally and have the same rights.

For teachers: the practice or spirit of social equality and the absence of hereditary or arbitrary class distinctions.

- The manager encouraged democracy in the office by letting everyone help make decisions.
- The movement was less about specific legislation and more about fostering a sense of grassroots democracy within the local community.

## Examples

- We live in a democracy where everyone can vote.
- The transition to a democracy allowed citizens to finally elect their own local officials after years of military rule.
- While ancient Athens is often celebrated as the birthplace of democracy, its system excluded women, enslaved people, and foreigners from participating in the political process.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.