Elected Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🗳️
elected
[ɪˈlɛktɪd ]
Definition
political context
To elect means to choose someone for a position or office through a vote. It is a fundamental process in democratic systems, allowing citizens to have a say in their governance. The term can apply to various levels of positions, from local officials to national leaders. Once elected, individuals hold their positions for a designated term, during which they are expected to represent the interests of their constituents.
Synonyms
appoint, choose, select, vote for.
Examples of usage
- She was elected mayor after a close race.
- Voters will elect new representatives next month.
- He was elected to the board unanimously.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from the Latin 'electus', meaning 'chosen' or 'picked'.
- The concept of electing leaders dates back to ancient Greece, where citizens voted for their government officials.
- In ancient Rome, the Senate was made up of elected representatives, which influenced modern democratic practices.
Political Science
- The idea of democracy, where leaders are elected by the people, advanced significantly during the Enlightenment period in the 17th and 18th centuries.
- Elections can vary in type, including direct elections where everyone votes, and indirect elections where representatives vote on behalf of others.
- Political parties often play a key role in elections by nominating candidates and influencing voter decisions.
Cultural Significance
- Elections are celebrated events in many cultures, representing a collective voice and power of the citizens.
- Traditional ceremonies, like those seen in indigenous communities, often accompany the election of leaders, showing their importance to societal structure.
- The right to vote and elect leaders is a fundamental part of civic responsibility and is often taught in schools.
Psychology
- People's choices during elections can be influenced by social factors, such as peer pressure or media portrayals of candidates.
- The phenomenon known as 'confirmation bias' means people often favor candidates that reflect their pre-existing beliefs.
- Voter turnout can be swayed by factors like emotions, perceived importance of the election, and engagement level.
Modern Context
- In today's world, social media plays a significant role in elections, influencing public opinion and candidate visibility.
- Around 60% of eligible voters cast their ballots in recent major elections, highlighting ongoing societal interest in participation.
- Some countries implement automated systems and technologies to streamline the voting process, improving efficiency.
Origin of 'elected'
The word 'elected' derives from the Latin word 'eligere', which means 'to choose' or 'to select'. This Latin term comprises the prefix 'e-' meaning 'out of', and 'ligere', meaning 'to bind' or 'to choose'. The transition from Latin to Middle English saw the emergence of 'electen', which eventually evolved into 'elect' in modern English. The concept of electing representatives or leaders has deep roots in ancient democracies, particularly in Greek city-states where citizens had the opportunity to vote on various matters. Throughout history, the process of elections has transformed significantly, influenced by political movements and the expansion of suffrage, leading to the contemporary democratic systems we recognize today.