VocabDictionary

dissident

/ˈdɪs.ɪ.dənt/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A person who opposes official policy, especially that of an authoritarian state.

Example Sentences:
  • The regime cracked down heavily on political dissidents and journalists.
  • Several prominent dissidents were exiled for speaking out against the government.
2.adjective

In opposition to official policies, doctrines, or established authorities.

Example Sentences:
  • A small group of dissident shareholders voted against the merger.
  • The university struggled to contain the growing dissident movement among students.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “dissident”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'dissidentem' (nominative 'dissidens'), present participle of 'dissidere' meaning 'to sit apart' or 'disagree', formed from 'dis-' (apart) + 'sedere' (to sit). It entered English in the mid-16th century, initially referring to religious nonconformists before expanding to political dissent.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of someone who sits ('sedere') apart ('dis-') from the rest of the group because they disagree with them.

Frequently Asked Questions About “dissident

1. What is the meaning of “dissident” in English?

In English, dissident (noun) is defined as: “A person who opposes official policy, especially that of an authoritarian state.”.

2. How do you use “dissident” in a sentence?

The regime cracked down heavily on political dissidents and journalists.

3. What are English synonyms of “dissident”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “dissident”?

Derived from the Latin 'dissidentem' (nominative 'dissidens'), present participle of 'dissidere' meaning 'to sit apart' or 'disagree', formed from 'dis-' (apart) + 'sedere' (to sit). It entered English in the mid-16th century, initially referring to religious nonconformists before expanding to political dissent.