What does commie mean?
The term commie refers to a communist, especially one who is regarded as being overly enthusiastic or extreme in their views. It is often used pejoratively to imply that someone is overly radical or extreme in their views, and can also be used to imply a perceived threat or danger associated with communism. The term is commonly used in British and US English, and is often used in a political context to describe individuals or groups that support or advocate for communist or socialist policies. The term has a somewhat negative connotation, and is often used by those who disagree with or are opposed to communist or socialist ideologies.
nounA communist, especially one who is regarded as being overly enthusiastic or extreme in their views.
- A person who supports or advocates for communism
- An extreme or enthusiastic communist
"The politician was labeled a commie by her opponents for her support of socialist policies."
"The activist was accused of being a commie for her involvement in the labor union."
"The politician's opponents tried to paint him as a commie for his support of government intervention in the economy."
The plural form is used to refer to multiple communists or individuals who support communist or socialist policies.
"The group of activists were accused of being commies for their involvement in the protest."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of commie
The term commie is a colloquialism that originated in the mid-20th century, likely as a shortened form of communist. It is derived from the Latin communis, meaning 'common' or 'shared', and the suffix -ist, which forms an agent noun indicating a person who practices or advocates for a particular ideology or system. The term has been used in English since the early 20th century to describe individuals or groups that support or advocate for communist or socialist policies.
Usage notes
This term is often used pejoratively to imply that someone is overly radical or extreme in their views. It can also be used to imply a perceived threat or danger associated with communism.