Revolution

Friday, April 25, 2025
Word of the Day

What is Revolution?

noun
A forcible overthrow of a government or social order, in favor of a new system.

Pronunciation

US pronunciation: /ˌrɛvəˈluːʃən/
UK pronunciation: /ˌrev.əˈluː.ʃən/
Slow pronunciation: rev-uh-LOO-shun

Meaning Explained

Revolution denotes a significant change in political power or organizational structures, often achieved through mass movements or uprisings.

Why This Word?

Selected to honor the anniversary of the Carnation Revolution in Portugal, symbolizing peaceful transition to democracy.

Examples of Use

Here's how this word appears in everyday language:

  • The industrial revolution transformed manufacturing processes.
  • She studied the causes of the French Revolution in her history class.
  • The digital revolution has changed how we communicate.

Word Origins

Latin revolutio meaning "a turn around"

Originally referred to celestial cycles; later adopted to describe political upheavals.

First appearance in English: 14th century

Word Family

Related forms of this word:

  • Noun: revolutionary

    She was a revolutionary leader in the movement.

  • Verb: revolt

    The citizens decided to revolt against the oppressive regime.

  • Adjective: revolutionary

    The invention was considered revolutionary in its field.

Around the World

How this word appears in other languages:

  • Spanish: revolución
  • French: révolution
  • German: Revolution
  • Italian: rivoluzione
  • Portuguese: revolução

If you Already Know This Word

If you've mastered this word, try these more advanced alternatives:

Insurrection

A violent uprising against an authority or government; often less organized than a revolution.

Coup d'état

A sudden, violent, and illegal seizure of power from a government; typically involves a small group.

Reform

Making changes to something to improve it; usually gradual and within existing systems.

Uprising

An act of resistance or rebellion; a revolt, often localized and short-lived.

Fun Facts

  • The term "revolution" was first used in the political sense during the English Civil War in the 17th century.
  • The Carnation Revolution is named after the use of carnations by protestors to symbolize peaceful change.

Cultural Usage

  • The Carnation Revolution in Portugal on April 25, 1974, was a peaceful coup that ended decades of dictatorship.
  • The Beatles’ song "Revolution" reflects the social and political unrest of the 1960s.

Common Mistakes

Sometimes confused with "rebellion"; however, "revolution" implies a complete systemic change.

Micro Story

The Carnation Revolution was a peaceful revolution that led to significant political change in Portugal.