Definition

Not having the right to vote or participate in decision-making processes, often due to social or political reasons.

Example

Many people feel disenfranchised when their voices are not heard in elections.

Conversation

I was reading about how many people feel disenfranchised during elections.

Yeah, it's really sad that some voices go unheard.

It makes me wonder what we can do to help those who feel disenfranchised.

Exactly! Raising awareness is a good start.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To take away someone's right to vote or to deprive them of a privilege or right.

Example

Many citizens felt disenfranchised after the new voting laws were enacted.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I read an article about how many people feel disenfranchised by the voting process.

That's really concerning! It seems like their voices aren't being heard.

Exactly! It's frustrating when people feel disenfranchised and don't know how to change it.

Root Explanation

Disenfranchised → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "enfranchise" (from Old French *franchir*, meaning to free or to make free). The word describes the state of being made apart from the rights or privileges of citizenship, particularly the right to vote.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'made apart' ('dis-') from the rights of citizenship, which is what disenfranchised means.

Visually Confused Words