Political Dictionary

An essential guide to the language of power

Word of the Day Sunday, October 11, 2026
Weaponize

The term “weaponize” refers to the strategic manipulation or transformation of information, institutions, or social issues into tools for gaining political advantage.

What readers are looking up this week

Word Games

Real or Snollygoster?

Chilling Effect
  1. AA “chilling effect” is a situation in which rights are…
  2. BA "chilling effect" is a drop in voter turnout or political…
  3. CA "chilling effect" is the deliberate use of procedural delays…

Three definitions, one real. Spot the snollygosters.

Play today’s round → Puzzle No. 21

Define It

The term “” is often invoked to describe actions that evoke the themes of surveillance, authoritarianism, and…

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

Play today’s round → Puzzle No. 21

Recently added

All new terms →
One-House Bill

A “one-house bill” is a bill introduced by a lawmaker for the purpose of grandstanding or to demonstrate their effort to fulfill political promises without the ability to actually pass…

Whistleblower

A whistleblower refers to an individual who exposes illicit activities, misconduct, or unethical practices occurring within a political entity, government institution, or related organizations.

Speaker Emerita

The term “Speaker Emerita” is a title bestowed on a former Speaker of the House of Representatives in the United States who has left the position but continues to serve…

Give ‘Em Hell Harry

“Give ’em hell Harry” is a reference to President Harry Truman’s 1948 re-election campaign. It’s also the name of a very successful play and movie.

Mission Accomplished Moment

A “Mission Accomplished moment” has come to mean any grandiose declaration of success by a politician or political leader which later proves false.

Every Man a King

“Every Man a King” is the title of a speech delivered in 1934 by Senator Huey Long of Louisiana.

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