BharatNotes Maoist
noun; adjectiveUsage in a UPSC answer
The persistence of Maoist insurgency in the mineral-rich tribal belt of central India reflects not merely a law-and-order failure but the State's inability to deliver development, dignity and the constitutional promise of justice to its most marginalised citizens.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Maoist (n), Maoist (adj), Maoism (n), Maoists (n pl), anti-Maoist (adj)
Root
Proper noun: Mao (Mao Zedong, 1893–1976) + -ist (Greek -istēs, one who practices/believes)
Etymology
From the proper name Mao (Mao Zedong, 1893-1976, Chinese communist leader) + the suffix -ist; earliest known English use dates to 1949.
Memory Hook
"Mao + -ist" = a follower of Mao. Picture the little red book held by a believer (the "-ist") of Chairman Mao's peasant revolution.
Seen in UPSC Question Papers
- Prelims 2024 — Internal Security
- Prelims 2016 — Internal Security
Real UPSC previous-year questions whose text uses “Maoist” — proof this word earns its place on your list.
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