Militaristic is spelled with five syllables: /ˌmɪlɪtəˈrɪstɪk/. The word comes from the root "military", which refers to armed forces and warfare. The suffix "-istic" denotes adherence to a particular ideology or practice, as in "capitalistic" or "nationalistic". Thus, "militaristic" describes an adherence to military ideology or practices, often involving aggressive or expansionist policies. As with many English words, the spelling of "militaristic" reflects its Latin-derived roots and complex phonological history.
The term "militaristic" refers to an ideology, policy, or system that places extreme emphasis on military power, values, or conduct. It encompasses a belief in the supreme importance of the armed forces in maintaining national security, and may involve the glorification or exaltation of military values, principles, and structures.
Militaristic regimes often prioritize military strength over other societal aspects, dedicating significant resources to building and maintaining a powerful military force. They typically prioritize military preparedness, defense, and expansion, perceiving any threat to their national security as a potential trigger for aggression. This ideology often justifies the use of military force as a means to achieve political, economic, or territorial objectives. It may involve the persistent militarization of society, including the involvement of the armed forces in civilian affairs such as law enforcement, public administration, or economic planning.
Characteristics associated with militaristic systems include hierarchical command structures, regimentation, strict obedience to authority, and the suppression of dissent. Propaganda is often used to promote patriotism, loyalty, and the commitment to military objectives. Militaristic policies may be influenced by broader geopolitical objectives or historical factors, such as the memory of past conflicts, territorial disputes, or nationalistic ideologies. While militaristic tendencies can be found in various forms and degrees across different societies, they can become exceptionally pronounced in autocratic or authoritarian regimes.
The word "militaristic" is derived from the noun "militarist", which refers to a person who advocates or supports militarism. "Militarism" itself is derived from the noun "militar", which designates a soldier or a member of armed forces. This noun comes from the Latin noun "miles", meaning "soldier". The suffix "-istic" is added to "militar" to form the adjective "militaristic", which describes someone or something characterized by, or adhering to, militarism.