WordGarden.ioultraconservative
C2Pronunciation
UK
US
- /ˌəltrəkənˈsɜrvətɪv/
Meanings
Adjective
extremely conservative in politics or social policy
Beyond the definition
Imagine someone who doesn't just like things the way they are, but actively wants society to return to the values and habits of an earlier time. That is the essence of an ultraconservative person. It goes beyond simply being "conservative"; it suggests a strong desire to move society back toward what they see as a better, more traditional past.
The term is most often used in political contexts to describe individuals or groups who hold extremely right-wing views on social and political issues. You might hear about an ultraconservative politician calling for strict laws based on religious beliefs, or an ultraconservative movement pushing for a return to "traditional family values." It's important to note that the term can be loaded; it is often used by people who oppose these views and is not always accepted by the people it describes. Think of it as a label for someone placed on the far edge of the conservative side of politics, even compared with other conservatives.
"Ultraconservative" describes an ideology or an individual holding beliefs that go significantly beyond mainstream conservatism. While most conservatives generally favor tradition and stability, ultraconservatives actively yearn for a return to past social norms, often idealized as morally superior. This isn't just about maintaining the status quo; it is about reversing perceived societal decline and reclaiming a lost way of life.
The term frequently appears in political discourse, particularly when discussing movements or figures advocating rigid traditional values, strict moral codes, and limited government intervention, except in areas where they believe the state should enforce those moral values. An ultraconservative might oppose developments such as LGBTQ+ rights, abortion access, secular education, or multiculturalism, viewing them as serious threats to the "traditional" social fabric.
It's crucial to understand that "ultraconservative" is often a label applied by outside observers. Those who hold these beliefs may simply describe themselves as "principled conservatives" or "traditionalists." Because the term carries connotations of rigidity and resistance to progress, it is frequently used critically by those with opposing political viewpoints. Furthermore, what constitutes "traditional" varies greatly depending on the specific cultural or religious context. Whether you are reading about an ultraconservative faction within a political party or analyzing historical religious fundamentalism, the key takeaway is that the word signifies not just conservatism, but an extreme version of it—a powerful and often controversial force in shaping social and political landscapes.
Examples
- 1
Election
The candidate was especially popular with ultraconservative voters.
- 2
Religious community
She grew up in an ultraconservative religious community where dating was not allowed.
- 3
School rules
Some teachers thought the school's dress code was too ultraconservative for today's students.
- 4
Legal shift
Critics say the court has taken an ultraconservative turn in recent years.
- Phrasehas taken an ultraconservative turn
has become much more ultraconservative
See also
Similar
- archconservative
- far-right
- hard-line conservative
Shades of meaning
- reactionary
- right-wing
- fundamentalist
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- ultraconservative views
- ultraconservative politician
- ultraconservative movement
Word family
- ultraconservatism
- ultraconservatively
Explore
- political spectrum
- traditionalism
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- ultraconservativenounadjective
Forms
- ultraconservativespluralnounadjective