English Reference
Noun

lefty

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈɫɛfti/ UK /lˈɛfti/ lefty UK spelling lefties Politics

n.a person who has left-wing political views. It is a casual way to describe someone who supports social equality and government programs.

n.a person whose political views align with the left wing of the political spectrum. Often carries a dismissive or derogatory tone depending on the speaker's intent.


SIMPLE

He has been a committed lefty since his university days.

CONTEXTUAL

The local newspaper is often accused of being run by lefties who ignore conservative perspectives.

COMPLEX

While the term is frequently used as a casual shorthand among activists, it can also function as a pejorative in polarized political debates to oversimplify complex ideological positions.

Usage

Informal register; can be used neutrally within left-wing circles but is often used as a mild insult by political opponents.

Tongue averages 21.5 against right-handers but 35.7 against lefties.

BBC News· 28 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated