# woke

/ˈwoʊk/ (US) · /wˈəʊk/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 3. progressive (often critical)

adjective · CEFR C1 · Informal · Slang

a word used to describe very progressive or liberal political views, often used by people who disagree with them.

For teachers: pertaining to progressive or left-wing political attitudes. Frequently used as a pejorative by critics to characterize such views as performative or extreme.

- Some people complain that modern movies have become too woke.
- The politician campaigned against what he described as 'woke' ideology, targeting specific educational policies he deemed too radical.

Teaching tip: This sense is often used as an insult by political opponents; learners should be careful using it as it can sound very biased.

### 4. progressive ideology

noun · CEFR C2 · Informal · Slang

a name for progressive or liberal ideas, usually used by people who do not like them.

For teachers: a collective term for progressive social justice movements or ideologies. Almost exclusively used in a derogatory or dismissive manner by political critics.

- The newspaper article discussed the rise of woke in university culture.
- Critics of the movement often conflate various distinct social theories under the singular banner of 'woke' to simplify their opposition.

## Examples

- She became more woke after reading about history.
- The brand's new advertising campaign was praised by some for being woke, while others found it performative.

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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.