Dissident

/ˈdɪsɪdənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person who opposes official policy, especially that of an authoritarian state.
The dissident spoke out against the government, advocating for political reform.
A person who disagrees with the established doctrine or beliefs in a particular field.
As a dissident in the scientific community, she challenged the prevailing theories on climate change.
adjective
In opposition to official policy.
The dissident voices were silenced by the government to maintain control.

Etymology

Latin dissidens, dissidentis, present participle of dissidere 'to sit apart, disagree'

Common Phrases and Expressions

political dissident:
A person who opposes authoritarian government policies.
dissident voice:
An expression of a differing opinion in political contexts.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Rebel against the status quo.
He's been labeled a dissident because of his radical views.
A maverick thinker.
In a room full of conformists, she’s a dissident.