Definition

A person who is part of a radical political group that supports extreme changes in government, especially one that promoted equality and used violence during the French Revolution.

Example

The Jacobins played a significant role in the political upheaval of the French Revolution.

Conversation

Have you heard about the Jacobin movement from history?

Yeah, they were quite radical in their approach to democracy.

I read that they really aimed for social equality.

Exactly, but their methods were pretty extreme.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Jacobin → The term originates from the French 'Jacobin', which refers to a member of the Jacobin Club, a political group during the French Revolution. The name derives from the convent of Saint-Jacques in Paris, where the club first met. The word 'Jacobin' thus signifies a member of a radical political faction advocating for revolutionary change.

Memory Tip

Think of the Jacobin Club as a group of people meeting at the 'Saint-Jacques' convent, which helps you remember that 'Jacobin' refers to those who were part of this revolutionary political movement.

Visually Confused Words