What does reactionary mean?
Reactionary describes an attitude, person, or force that opposes significant political, social, or cultural change and favors preserving existing institutions, traditions, or hierarchies. In contemporary English, it is most often used in political discussion, where it may be descriptive or openly critical. A reactionary is not simply anyone who prefers caution or dislikes a particular policy; the term commonly suggests a broader commitment to maintaining the established order, sometimes in response to reform, revolution, or modernization. The adjective is generally used more often than the noun, and both forms carry a degree of polemical force. Historians and political writers may use the word analytically when describing earlier movements or parties, while everyday speakers often use it as an accusation. Its usefulness lies in naming a distinct political orientation rather than a minor difference of policy.
Characterized by opposition to change and by support for existing political, social, or cultural arrangements.
"The editors rejected the proposal as reactionary rather than merely cautious."
Often used in political and historical contexts; it may be descriptive or critical depending on the speaker.
A person who opposes political, social, or cultural change and seeks to preserve the existing order.
"The reactionary warned that the proposed reform would undermine traditional institutions."
The noun is established but is less frequent in modern usage than the adjective.
The standard plural of the noun is reactionaries.
"Reactionaries in the legislature opposed the proposed reforms."
Reactionary is the political compass word for anyone who says, “Change is the enemy.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does reactionary come from?
Reactionary was formed in English from reaction, a word borrowed from French réaction, with the suffix -ary. The French word derives from Latin reactio, which is related to re- and the Latin verb agere, meaning “to do” or “to act.” During the nineteenth century, reactionary became established as a political term for opposition to reform and revolutionary change. Its formation reflects the same root found in reaction, reactive, reactor, and active.
Related word forms
How reactionary is actually used
In modern English, reactionary is chiefly a political term and is commonly more formal or critical than neutral alternatives such as conservative. It can describe a person, position, force, regime, or policy, and it usually implies more than simple caution about change: it suggests active attachment to the existing order and resistance to reform.
Easily confused with reactionary
A reaction is a response or tendency, whereas a reactionary is a person or position opposed to change.
Reactive describes responding to a stimulus or situation, while reactionary specifically describes opposition to change.