# fascist

/ˈfæʃɪst/ (US) · /fˈæʃɪst/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fascist
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. political supporter

noun · CEFR B2

a person who supports a political system led by a dictator who controls everything and does not allow opposition.

For teachers: an advocate or follower of fascism, characterized by dictatorial power, forcible suppression of opposition, and strong regimentation of society.

- The history book explained how the fascist rose to power before the war.
- Political analysts debated whether the candidate was a true fascist or simply a populist using nationalist rhetoric to gain votes.

### 2. relating to fascism

adjective · CEFR B2

relating to or supporting a political system where a dictator has total control.

For teachers: of or relating to fascism; supporting the principles of far-right authoritarian nationalism.

- The country suffered under a fascist government for many decades.
- The regime implemented fascist policies that restricted freedom of the press and banned all rival political parties.

### 3. very strict or controlling

adjective · CEFR C1 · Informal

used to describe someone who is unfairly strict or tries to control everything you do.

For teachers: used figuratively to describe a person or organization that is perceived as unfairly oppressive, intolerant, or needlessly strict.

- My boss is a bit fascist about everyone arriving exactly at 9:00 AM.
- The students complained about the school's fascist dress code, which forbade even the smallest deviations from the uniform.

### 4. historical Italian party member

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical · Formal

a member of the National Fascist Party in Italy between 1922 and 1943.

For teachers: specifically, a member of the Partito Nazionale Fascista under Benito Mussolini in Italy.

- The museum displayed uniforms worn by Italian fascists during the 1930s.
- Historians distinguish between the original Italian fascists and the various neo-fascist movements that emerged after the second world war.

## Examples

- He was accused of being a fascist because of his extreme views.
- The history professor explained how the fascist party rose to power by promising national unity and economic stability.

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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.