democratically
UK[ˌdeməˈkrætɪkli]US[ˌdeməˈkrætɪkli]
adv
in a way that follows or supports the principles of democracy, where all people have equal rights and power is held by elected representatives.
adv
in a way that is controlled by or represents all members of a group equally.
Morpheme Breakdown
demo
crat
ically
demo
people
crat
rule, power
ically
adverb suffix
Etymology
the word 'democratically' is built upon the core concept of 'democracy', which originates from ancient greek political philosophy. its first element, 'dēmos', referred to the common citizenry of a city-state, distinct from the aristocracy. the second element, derived from 'kratos', signified strength, authority, and rule. thus, the literal ancient compound meant 'rule by the people'. this concept was revived during the enlightenment, evolving from a direct political system in small city-states to a broader principle of representative government and equal rights. the adverbial suffix '-ically' was later appended in english to describe actions performed in accordance with this principle, transforming the abstract noun into a descriptor of manner and process.
Analysis
Structure: demo (people) + crat (rule, power) + ically (adverb suffix)
- demo: from greek 'dēmos', meaning 'the people, common people'. functions as a root indicating 'people'.
- crat: from greek '-kratēs', meaning 'ruler, power'. functions as a root indicating 'rule' or 'governing power'.
- ically: a compound english suffix combining '-ic' (adjective-forming) and '-ally' (adverb-forming), indicating 'in a manner of'.
Examples
the leader was chosen democratically through a free and fair vote.
the committee operates democratically, with every member having an equal say in decisions.
they resolved the issue democratically by taking a majority vote.