Revanchist Meaning and Definition
Revanchist
Pronunciation
/ˈrɛvæntʃɪst/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A person who advocates for revenge or retaliation, often in a violent or aggressive manner, especially in response to a perceived injustice or past conflict.
Examples
- The politician’s call for revenge against the opposing party was seen as a revanchist stance.
- The revanchist movement in the country was fueled by a desire for retribution against foreign powers.
Synonyms
- Revenge-seeker
- Retaliator
Antonyms
- Forgiver
- Peacemaker
Etymology
The word “revanchist” comes from the French word “revanche,” meaning “revenge” or “retaliation.” It was first used in the 19th century to describe the French movement for revenge against Germany after the Franco-Prussian War.
Usage Notes
The word “revanchist” is often used in a negative context to describe a person or movement that seeks revenge or retaliation, often in a violent or aggressive manner. It can also be used to describe a policy or ideology that prioritizes revenge over reconciliation or forgiveness.
Cultural References
The word “revanchist” has been used in various cultural references, including literature, film, and politics. For example, the novel “The Revanchist” by John Varley explores the theme of revenge and retaliation in a futuristic society.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Revanchist rhetoric” refers to the use of language that emphasizes revenge or retaliation.
- “Revanchist politics” refers to a political ideology that prioritizes revenge over reconciliation or forgiveness.
Related Words or Phrases
- Revenge
- Retaliation
- Reconciliation
Collocations
- Revanchist movement
- Revanchist ideology
- Revanchist politics
Frequency of Use
The word “revanchist” is not commonly used in everyday language, but it is often used in academic and political contexts to describe a particular ideology or movement.
Common Misspellings
- Revanchisst
- Revanchiste
Additional Information
The revanchist movement in the 19th century was characterized by a desire for revenge against foreign powers, particularly Germany, for the loss of the Franco-Prussian War. This movement led to a series of conflicts and tensions in Europe, including the Franco-Prussian War and the Boer Wars. In modern times, the term “revanchist” is often used to describe a person or movement that seeks revenge or retaliation, often in a violent or aggressive manner. This can be seen in various forms of media, including literature, film, and politics.
The revanchist ideology is often associated with a desire for retribution and a rejection of compromise or reconciliation. This can lead to a cycle of violence and retaliation, as seen in various conflicts throughout history. In contrast, a more peaceful and forgiving approach can lead to greater understanding and cooperation between nations and individuals.
The word “revanchist” is often used in a negative context to describe a person or movement that seeks revenge or retaliation. However, it can also be used to describe a policy or ideology that prioritizes revenge over reconciliation or forgiveness. In this sense, the word “revanchist” can be seen as a warning sign of a potential conflict or a call to action for those who seek to promote peace and understanding.