noun

neofascism

nee-oh-FASH-iz-uhm

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Neofascism (noun) means a right-wing political movement that takes its inspiration from fascism, especially the fascism of Fascist Italy, Nazi Germany and wartime Japan. Example: “Neofascism has resurfaced in various forms across parts of modern Europe.”

noun

A right-wing political movement that takes its inspiration from fascism, especially the fascism of Fascist Italy, Nazi Germany and wartime Japan.

"Neofascism has resurfaced in various forms across parts of modern Europe."

"Commentators warned that the group's rhetoric slipped into neofascism."

"Historians study neofascism to understand how older ideologies get reused by new movements."

How to use neofascism

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishNeofascism is the name for modern political movements that borrow their ideas from the fascist regimes of the past.

When to use it

It is used mainly in political analysis, journalism and history rather than casual speech.

Memory tip

The prefix neo- means 'new', so the word points to a modern revival rather than the original twentieth-century movement.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

fascism →

Common pairings

the rise of neofascism accused of neofascism modern neofascism combat neofascism

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “neofascism” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

_____ has resurfaced in various forms across parts of modern Europe.

Etymology

Neofascism is formed from the prefix neo-, meaning new, added to fascism. It describes a later, modern version of the earlier ideology.

Origin: English

Rhymes for neofascism

fascism

See all rhymes for neofascism →

Frequently asked questions

What is neofascism?

Neofascism is a right-wing political movement that draws on the ideas of earlier fascist regimes, particularly those of Fascist Italy, Nazi Germany and wartime Japan.

Is neofascism the same as fascism?

No. Neofascism is a modern movement that takes inspiration from historical fascism rather than being identical to it.

Where does the word neofascism come from?

It is built from the prefix neo-, meaning new, joined to the existing word fascism.

What is the meaning of neofascism?

"neofascism" (noun) means a right-wing political movement that takes its inspiration from fascism, especially the fascism of Fascist Italy, Nazi Germany and wartime Japan.