Definition

A system of government where a group of people, often acting in a disorderly or violent way, has control over political decisions.

Example

In a mobocracy, decisions are often made based on the loudest voices rather than through fair processes.

Conversation

Did you read that article about mobocracy?

Yeah, it was pretty wild how people can sway decisions so easily.

I wonder if it’s a good thing or a bad thing for democracy.

It’s definitely a double-edged sword — the mobocracy can lead to chaos.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mobocracy → It is formed from "mob" (from Latin *mobile vulgus*, meaning the fickle crowd) and "-cracy" (from Greek *kratos*, meaning power or rule). The word describes a form of government where the power is held by the crowd or the masses, often in a chaotic or unruly manner.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'mob' as a 'fickle crowd' that holds 'power' ('-cracy') — that's why mobocracy means rule by the crowd.

Visually Confused Words