# lefty

/ˈɫɛfti/ (US) · /lˈɛfti/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

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

## Definition

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

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- He has been a committed lefty since his university days.
- The local newspaper is often accused of being run by lefties who ignore conservative perspectives.
- 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 notes

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

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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.