Tory
Definition from Wiktionary, the free dictionary
Contents
English[edit]
Etymology[edit]
From Irish *tóraidhe (“pursuer”) (unattested except in derivatives, eg tóraigheachd (“pursuit”)), from tóir (“to pursue”).
Pronunciation[edit]
Noun[edit]
Tory (plural Tories)
- (UK) A member or supporter of the Conservative Party, which evolved from Royalist politicians; associated with upholding the rights of the monarchy and the privileges of the established Church.
- (by extension) One who is like a British Tory; someone politically conservative.
- (Canada) A member or supporter of the Conservative Party of Canada, one of that party's predecessors, or an affiliated provincial political party.
- (historical) A pejorative nickname given to the political factions who sought to exclude James, Duke of York from the throne of England (the Exclusioners) in the 17th century.
- (now historical, pejorative) An Irish rebel fighting against English rule at the end of the Confederate War and Cromwellian invasion; later extended to other rebels or bandits.
- (US, historical, American Revolution) A loyal British citizen.
- (US, historical, American Civil War, Confederate states) A Union sympathizer.
Synonyms[edit]
- (Politically conservative): conservative, small-c conservative
- (Canada): Conservative, Progressive Conservative, PC, P.C.
- (American Revolution): loyalist, Loyalist, United Empire Loyalist
Translations[edit]
a member or supporter of the Conservative Party (UK, Canada)
Derived terms[edit]
Antonyms[edit]
Adjective[edit]
Tory (not comparable)
- (UK) Of or belonging to the Tory Party or the Conservative Party.
- (Canada) Of or belonging to the Conservative Party of Canada, one of that party's predecessors, or an affiliated provincial political party.
