neoliberal
UK[ˌniːəʊˈlɪbərəl]US[ˌniːoʊˈlɪbərəl]
adj
relating to a modified form of liberalism tending to favor free-market capitalism and minimal state intervention.
n
a person who advocates neoliberal policies.
Morpheme Breakdown
neo
liberal
neo
new
liberal
free
Etymology
the term neoliberal is a modern compound, first used in the mid-20th century. it combines the greek-derived prefix 'neo-', meaning 'new', with the latin-derived word 'liberal', which historically pertains to liberty and freedom. the word was coined to describe a revived or updated form of classical liberalism, emphasizing free markets, deregulation, and reduced government spending. its formation follows a clear pattern in political terminology, where 'neo-' signals a distinct, contemporary iteration of an established ideological tradition.
Analysis
Structure: neo (new) + liberal (free)
- neo: from greek 'neos', meaning 'new'. serves as a combining form to denote a revived or modified form of something.
- liberal: from latin 'liberalis', meaning 'of freedom, befitting a free person'. functions as the base word denoting the political and economic ideology.
Examples
the country adopted neoliberal economic policies in the 1980s.
he is a staunch neoliberal who argues for privatization and free trade.
critics argue that neoliberal reforms have increased social inequality.