dissident
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈdɪsɪdənt/
KK: /ˈdɪsɪdənt/
adjective
Definition
Describing someone who disagrees with or opposes an established system, especially in politics or religion.
Example
The dissident voices were silenced by the government.
Conversation
I heard you read that book about dissident thinkers.
Yeah, it was really eye-opening about different viewpoints.
I love how it challenges the norm and presents dissident ideas.
Absolutely! It’s important to consider all perspectives.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
oppositional
rebellious
contrary
Antonyms
conformist
agreeable
supportive
noun
Definition
A person who opposes or disagrees with an established system, organization, or belief, often in a political context.
Example
The dissident spoke out against the government's policies during the protest.
Conversation
Did you hear about that dissident who spoke out against the government?
Yeah, I read about it online — pretty brave of them.
It’s important for people to stand up like that, don’t you think?
Root Explanation
Dissident → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "sedere" (meaning to sit). The word describes someone who sits apart or holds differing opinions, especially in a political context.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who 'sits apart' ('dis-') from the majority opinion — that's why a dissident is someone who disagrees or opposes.
Visually Confused Words
assident
disidentify