Meaning & Definition of word "Communism"

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    Communism

    /ˈkɒmjʊnɪzəm/

    noun:

    • 1. A political and economic ideology advocating for a classless system in which the means of production are owned communally and private ownership is abolished.
      • Example: The rise of communism in the early 20th century had a significant impact on global politics.
    • 2. A system of government in which the state plans and controls the economy and a single political party holds power.
      • Example: The communist regime implemented strict controls over personal freedoms and the press.
    • 3. The principles or teachings of Marx and Lenin regarding socialism and the transition toward a classless society.
      • Example: Many students of political theory examine the writings of Marx to better understand the fundamentals of communism.
    • 4. A social movement aimed at establishing a communist society.
      • Example: The communism advocated by various revolutionary groups inspired numerous uprisings around the world.

    Etymology

    From French 'communisme', from Latin 'communis' meaning 'common'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    dictatorship of the proletariat:

    A transitional state in which the working class holds political power.

    workers' commune:

    A collective organization of workers often associated with communist ideology.

    from each according to his ability, to each according to his needs:

    A principle suggesting that individuals should contribute to society based on their capabilities and receive based on their needs.

    Related Words

    socialism:

    A political and economic system where the means of production are owned or regulated by the community as a whole.

    Marxism:

    A theory of social change and economic development based on the ideas of Karl Marx, emphasizing class struggle.

    proletariat:

    The working-class people who do not own the means of production.

    Slang Meanings of communism

    Meaning: Commie

    Example Sentence: He's a self-proclaimed commie who believes in the redistribution of wealth.

    Meaning: Red

    Example Sentence: During the Cold War, anyone suspected of communism was labeled as a red.