How Do You Spell IDIOCRATIC?

Pronunciation: [ˌɪdɪəkɹˈatɪk] (IPA)

Idiocratic is a term that describes a system or government that is run by incompetent or unintelligent individuals. The spelling of this word is based on the Greek root word "idio", which means "personal" or "private". The second part of the word, "cratic", comes from the Greek word "kratein", meaning "to rule". The correct pronunciation of this word is [ˌɪdiəˈkrætɪk], with emphasis on the second syllable. The word has been used in political discourse to criticize leadership that is deemed to lack intelligence or capability.

IDIOCRATIC Meaning and Definition

1. Idiocratic is an adjective that describes a society, system, or governance characterized by the domination or influence of individuals who lack intelligence, wisdom, or sound judgment. It is derived from the word "idiotic," meaning lacking in intelligence, and is often used to critique or satirize a society or government that seems to prioritize the interests or ideas of foolish or incompetent individuals.

   In an idiocratic society, decision-making processes may be driven by those who exhibit ignorance, irrationality, or a lack of critical thinking. Policies and actions pursued by an idiocratic government may lack foresight, logic, or consideration of long-term consequences, leading to detrimental outcomes for the society as a whole. This term often implies a disregard for expertise, knowledge, or the value of reason, with decision-makers relying instead on personal biases or popular opinions that may be ill-informed.

   The idiocratic label is not typically employed as a positive term, since it suggests a lack of competence or intelligence in those who hold power or influence. It can be used to criticize or highlight the weaknesses, inefficiencies, or questionable decision-making prevalent in a particular political system or society. The term may also be used in a more general sense to comment on the state of affairs within a given organization, institution, or community, where decisions and actions seem to be driven by foolishness or incompetence.

2. Relating to idiocrasy.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. Peculiar in constitution or temperament.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for IDIOCRATIC

• udiocratic
• jdiocratic
• kdiocratic
• odiocratic
• 9diocratic
• 8diocratic
• isiocratic
• ixiocratic
• iciocratic
• ifiocratic
• iriocratic
• ieiocratic
• iduocratic
• idjocratic
• idkocratic
• idoocratic
• id9ocratic
• id8ocratic
• idiicratic

Etymology of IDIOCRATIC

The term "Idiocratic" is derived from the adjective "idiotic" combined with the suffix "-cratic". Here is the breakdown:

1. Idiotic: The word "idiotic" originates from the Greek noun "idiotēs", which referred to a private person or individual who was not involved in public affairs. Over time, "idiotēs" began to be associated with someone lacking in professional skill, knowledge, or understanding. The term eventually evolved in English to indicate a person who is foolish, senseless, or mentally deficient.

2. -cratic: The suffix "-cratic" comes from the Greek noun "kratos", meaning power or rule. "-Cratic" is commonly used to form adjectives that convey the idea of rule or governance.

Similar spelling words for IDIOCRATIC

• adhocratic,
• autocratic,
• autocritique.