Mugwump

usgb/ˈmʌɡwʌmp/
noun

A person who is independent, especially in politics, refusing to follow any party.

Despite being a member of the political party, he acted like a mugwump, voting based on his own beliefs.
Visual representation of "mugwump" - A person who is independent, especially in politics, refusing to follow any party.

Often appears as...

  • political mugwump
  • act like a mugwump

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "mugwump"
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Political Neutrality

Used to describe someone who does not show loyalty to any political party and makes up their own mind.

Illustration for Political Neutrality
Despite the heated debate, he remained a mugwump, not swayed by party lines.
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Decision Autonomy

Reflects a person's choice to act based on personal convictions rather than group influence.

Illustration for Decision Autonomy
As a mugwump, she valued her independent decisions over the committee's suggestions.
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Historical Usage

Originally used in the 1880s US politics to describe Republicans who supported a Democrat.

Illustration for Historical Usage
His mugwump stance reminded historians of the political shifts in the late 19th century.
Word comparison image

Compare with

biasdecidedisinterestedimpartialinconclusiveindependentneutraluncommitted
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Visual representation of the word "Mugwump"

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