Mutiny
noun; also verb (intransitive)Usage in a UPSC answer
When the rank and file of a coercive apparatus lose faith in the legitimacy of their command, discontent can harden into open mutiny, as the 1857 uprising demonstrated, reminding the modern state that disciplined institutions endure only so long as authority is perceived as just.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
mutiny (n./v.), mutineer (n.), mutinous (adj.), mutinously (adv.), mutinied (v. past)
Root
Old French meute = revolt, movement < Vulgar Latin movita = military uprising < Latin movēre = to move
Etymology
From obsolete French mutiner ("to revolt"), from meutin ("rebellious"), from meute ("a revolt, movement"), from Vulgar Latin movita ("a military uprising"), ultimately from Latin movēre ("to move"); entered English in the 1560s.
Memory Hook
Share the Latin root movere "to move" with "motion" and "move" - a mutiny is when subordinates collectively MOVE against their commander; think of restless sailors "moving" to seize the ship.
Seen in UPSC Question Papers
- Mains 2014 · GS1 · 10 marks — Modern History
Real UPSC previous-year questions whose text uses “Mutiny” — proof this word earns its place on your list.
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