democratic

The word “democratic” means relating to or based on the principle that power belongs to the people. In plain terms, describes anything based on rule by the people, or, capitalised, related to the US Democratic Party.

“Democratic” is pronounced deh-muh-KRA-tihk (/ˌdɛməˈkɹætɪk/ in IPA).

Here is “democratic” used in a sentence: “The country held its first democratic elections in a generation.”

“Democratic” is an adjective.

The word “democratic” comes from Ancient Greek. From Ancient Greek demokratikos, from demokratia ("democracy") plus the adjective suffix -ikos.

“Democratic” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

Lowercase 'democratic' describes anything based on rule by the people — democratic elections, a democratic workplace, a democratic decision. Capitalized 'Democratic' refers specifically to the Democratic Party in the United States. Context and capitalization tell you whether the writer means the general principle or the political party.

The opposites are words like authoritarian, autocratic, dictatorial, or undemocratic — systems where power rests with one ruler or a small group rather than the people. A democratic process invites broad participation; an authoritarian one concentrates control and limits the public's voice.

A free election is the classic example, where citizens vote to choose their leaders. Beyond politics, a decision is democratic when everyone affected has an equal say — a team voting on a plan, or a club where members elect their officers all reflect democratic principles.

Generally yes. In everyday use it carries positive associations of fairness, equality, and shared power, so calling a process democratic is usually praise. It is a descriptive term, though, so its exact tone depends on context — but most people hear it as approving.