Definition

A political ideology that supports the ideas and practices of the Bolsheviks, which include the belief in the need for a violent revolution to overthrow capitalism and establish a socialist state.

Example

Bolshevism played a significant role in the Russian Revolution of 1917.

Conversation

I recently read a book about bolshevism and its impact on Russia.

Oh really? That sounds interesting!

Yeah, it was fascinating to see how bolshevism changed the political landscape.

I can imagine! It's such a significant part of history.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bolshevism is derived from 'Bolshevik', which comes from the Russian 'большевик' (bol'shevik), meaning 'one of the majority'. The term 'Bolshevik' itself is formed from 'большой' (bol'shoy), meaning 'big' or 'large', and the suffix '-ик' (-ik), which is a diminutive or agentive suffix in Russian. Bolshevism refers to the political ideology and practices of the Bolsheviks, who were a faction of the Marxist Russian Social Democratic Labour Party that advocated for a revolutionary overthrow of the government and the establishment of a socialist state.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'Bolshevik' meaning 'one of the majority' — this helps you remember that Bolshevism is about the ideology of the majority faction in the Russian Revolution.

Visually Confused Words