neo-fascist
Meaning
Relating to or advocating a revived form of fascism, especially one incorporating modern elements.
A person who advocates or supports neo-fascism.
Structure
Usage
The group was monitored for its neo-fascist propaganda and symbols.
Several political analysts have warned of the rising influence of neo-fascist parties in the region.
His writings are considered a foundational text for neo-fascist thought.
Etymology
The term 'neo-fascist' is a modern political compound. The prefix 'neo-', of ancient Greek origin, signals a revival or new iteration, implying a contemporary adaptation. The base word 'fascist' originates from the Latin 'fascis', a symbol of authority (a bundle of rods), which was adopted by 20th-century Italian political movements to represent strength through unity. The compound 'neo-fascist' thus logically constructs the meaning of a modern political adherent or ideology that seeks to revive and update the core authoritarian, nationalist principles of historical fascism, often blending them with current issues and rhetoric.
Analysis
- neo: From Greek 'neos', meaning 'new'. A combining form used in English to denote a revived, modern, or modified form of something. - fascist: From Italian 'fascista', derived from 'fascio' (bundle, political group), ultimately from Latin 'fascis' (bundle). In English, it denotes an adherent of fascism, a far-right authoritarian political ideology.