noun
politician
Someone active in politics, especially as an elected official.
The politician answers voters' questions at a public meeting.
Etymology
The ending creates a person-name from the word for public affairs. A politician is someone whose activity centers on governing or competing for political influence.
More examples
- Local politicians debate the city's housing plan.
- She hopes to become a politician and represent her community.
- The retired politician still campaigns for her party.
Forms
politician · politicians
politics noun — Activities involving government, public policy, and power.
Similar words
- lawmaker
- A lawmaker makes laws; not every politician does.
- official
- An official holds an authorized position, sometimes outside politics.