Vocabulary Spotlight
Demotic
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition: Relating to ordinary people; popular or colloquial.
“The author’s demotic style made the book accessible and relatable to a wide audience.”
Pronunciation
[dih-mot-ik]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Colloquial
Common
Vernacular
Informal
Antonyms
Elite
Classical
Refined
Highbrow
Related Words
Common (adjective)
Everyday (adjective)
Word Origin
“Demotic” comes from the Greek “demotikos,” meaning “of or for the people.” It was first used in English to describe the popular script of ancient Egypt, later expanding to mean anything related to ordinary people.
Word Family
Noun: Demotic – A simplified form of script or language used by common people.
Adjective: Demotic – Relating to ordinary people.
Adjective: Democratic – Pertaining to democracy or common people’s participation.
Mnemonics
Think of “demotic” as “Daily Expressions of the Masses Overall To Informally Communicate.”
This mnemonic emphasizes that “demotic” refers to the language or behavior of ordinary people.
Industry-specific Usage
Literature
In literature, a demotic style uses language that resonates with ordinary people, making it more accessible and widely relatable.
Linguistics
Demotic language refers to everyday, non-formal speech patterns, which are often studied in sociolinguistics.
History
In historical contexts, “demotic script” refers to a simpler, cursive form of Egyptian hieroglyphics used by the general public.
In Context
The term “demotic” is useful when describing the language, customs, or cultural expressions of the general populace, contrasting with elite or formal traditions.