Political Dictionary

An essential guide to the language of power

Word of the Day Thursday, October 1, 2026
Gish Gallop

The “Gish Gallop” is a rhetorical technique named after Duane Gish, a prominent figure in the creationist movement who used this method to overwhelm his opponents during debates, particularly about the theory of evolution.

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Word Games

Real or Snollygoster?

Phoney War
  1. AThe "Phoney War" refers to a period in political campaigns when…
  2. BThe “Phoney War” refers to a period of relative inactivity and…
  3. CThe "Phoney War" refers to a political campaign strategy in…

Three definitions, one real. Spot the snollygosters.

Play today’s round → Puzzle No. 11

Define It

The phrase “” is commonly used to describe politicians or pundits that are perceived as being forthright, candid…

Five definitions, the term blanked out. Name all five.

Play today’s round → Puzzle No. 11

Recently added

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Pol

The term “pol” is short for “politician” and is often used to refer to a person who is actively involved in politics, either as an elected official or as a…

Chicago-style politics

“Chicago-style politics” is a phrase used to characterize a supposedly offensive tough, “take-no-prisoners” or “hardball” approach to politics.

Honest Graft

Honest graft refers to the money-making opportunities that might arise while holding public office.

Boondoggle

A “boondoggle” is a wasteful or extravagant project with no practical value.

All Things to All Men

“All things to all men” is a phrase applied to politicians who seem to be making contradictory promises and statements so that they can appeal to the broadest possible group…

Six-Year Itch

The “six-year itch” is the election held in the sixth year of a president’s tenure.

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