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Machiavellian

The origin and history of Machiavellian.

Etymology

From the name of Niccolò Machiavelli (1469-1527), the Italian writer whose book "The Prince" argued that rulers may need to use unethical methods to gain and keep power.

Origin: Italian · First attested 1469

Class of 1469

Machiavellian first entered the language around 1469. Other words from the same year:

See the full Class of 1469 →
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Etymology: FreeDict original editorial.