Revolt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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revolt
[rɪˈvəʊlt ]
Definitions
political uprising
Revolt refers to an attempt to overthrow the authority that is currently in power. It is a mass movement of people against a government or other established authority. Revolts can be peaceful protests or violent uprisings, depending on the circumstances.
Synonyms
insurrection, rebellion, uprising.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| revolt |
Typically used to describe a strong, often sudden, attempt by a group of people to change their government or leader by force. It can be used in a broader sense to describe a strong reaction against something unpleasant.
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| uprising |
Describes a revolt or rebellion, usually by a large group of people, often indicating spontaneity and wide-reaching involvement. Less formal than 'insurrection,' but still serious.
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| rebellion |
Broad term for opposition to authority, often involving open resistance. Can be used to describe various forms of defiance, not necessarily violent.
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| insurrection |
More formal and serious, indicating a violent uprising against an authority or government. Often used in legal and official contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The citizens staged a revolt against the dictator's regime.
- The workers organized a revolt to demand fair wages and better working conditions.
to rebel
To revolt means to rise up against authority or control. It is an act of defiance or disobedience, often in response to perceived injustice or oppression. People may revolt against a government, a leader, or any form of authority that they believe is unjust.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| revolt |
Typically used to describe a widespread rebellion against an authority, such as a government or ruler. It often implies a high level of discontent among the population.
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| rebel |
Used to describe individuals or groups who resist or fight against authority, often in a political context. It can be used both as a noun and a verb.
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| mutiny |
Commonly used in a military or maritime context to describe a rebellion against commanding officers. This term is often specific to soldiers or sailors refusing to obey orders.
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| rise up |
Often used to describe collective action against an oppressive force. It carries a sense of standing up for justice or rights and is often inspirational.
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Examples of usage
- The oppressed population decided to revolt against the corrupt government.
- The students were ready to revolt if their demands were not met.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'revolt' comes from the Latin word 'revolvere,' which means to turn back or roll back, indicating a return against control.
- Revolts have been part of human history for centuries, with famous examples like the American Revolution and the French Revolution.
- In ancient Rome, a significant revolt was led by Spartacus in 73 BC, where enslaved people fought for their freedom.
Literature
- Many literary works depict revolts, like George Orwell's 'Animal Farm,' which illustrates a revolt against oppression in a farmyard setting.
- William Shakespeare's plays often included themes of revolt, reflecting the tensions of his time, such as in 'Julius Caesar.'
- In modern novels, characters often engage in revolts as a way to explore themes of justice and freedom, such as in 'The Hunger Games.'
Psychology
- Psychologists suggest that revolts can arise from feelings of frustration and powerlessness, often linked to social identity and group dynamics.
- The need for fairness in society is a strong motivator for revolts, as individuals often feel compelled to correct injustices through collective action.
- A sense of community and shared goals significantly influences people's decision to revolt, promoting solidarity among participants.
Pop Culture
- Revolt themes frequently appear in films like 'V for Vendetta,' where the protagonist inspires the public to rise against a totalitarian regime.
- Music has often been a voice for revolts, with protest songs from the 1960s, such as Bob Dylan's 'The Times They Are A-Changin',' rallying people for social change.
- Video games like 'Assassin's Creed' engage players in historical revolts, combining entertainment with an exploration of social and political themes.
Science
- Scientific revolts can occur within academia, where established theories are challenged, leading to paradigm shifts, as seen during the Copernican Revolution.
- The term 'revolt' can also be applied metaphorically in biology to describe how genes may 'revolt' against dominant traits when conditions change.
- In ecology, when species revolt against environmental changes, such as invasive species overrunning local populations, it can disrupt ecosystems.
Origin of 'revolt'
The word 'revolt' originated in the late 16th century from the French word 'revolter', meaning 'to rise in rebellion'. It has been used to describe acts of defiance and uprisings throughout history, from political revolutions to social movements. The concept of revolt is deeply rooted in the human desire for freedom and justice, often leading to significant changes in societies and governments.