What does progressive mean?
Progressive describes people, ideas, policies, or processes that favor change, development, or reform rather than preserving existing conditions. In political language, it commonly refers to support for social reform and new approaches to public policy, although the word can be used approvingly, critically, or simply descriptively. It can also describe something that advances gradually, as in a progressive recovery or a progressive change in conditions. Historically, Progressive was the name used by reform-minded political parties and movements, particularly in the United States during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. As a noun, a progressive is a supporter of such a movement or party. Because progressive shares its linguistic roots with progress, proceed, and process, it connects ideas of movement and advancement: what is progressive is understood not merely as different, but as moving toward a more developed or improved condition.
Favoring reform, new ideas, or social change; or developing and advancing gradually.
"The organization supports progressive policies on education and workers' rights."
The political sense is especially common in British and American English. In other contexts, progressive may emphasize gradual development or advancement.
A member or supporter of a Progressive Party or political movement.
"The progressives argued that the existing system needed substantial reform."
This use is chiefly historical and most strongly associated with North American political movements; the capitalized form usually refers to a specific Progressive Party.
The plural is used for multiple members or supporters of a Progressive Party or movement.
"Several progressives called for changes to the party's platform."
Progressive began as a political label before becoming a general term for anyone who favors change over preserving the status quo.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does progressive come from?
Progressive comes through French from Latin progressus, a past participle of procedere, meaning to go forward. The same Latin root underlies English words such as proceed, process, procedure, and procession. In English, progressive originally conveyed the idea of moving forward or advancing, before developing its modern political sense of favoring reform and new ideas.
Related word forms
How progressive is actually used
The adjective is common in political and social contexts, where it often contrasts with conservative. It can carry a favorable connotation but is also used descriptively or critically, depending on context. The capitalized noun is chiefly historical and usually refers to a supporter or member of a Progressive Party, especially in North American politics.
Easily confused with progressive
Progressive describes a policy, person, or process favoring change or development, whereas progress is the advancement itself.