Refusenik
noun
A person who applies for permission to emigrate but is denied that right, especially in reference to Jews in the former Soviet Union.
The refuseniks fought for their right to leave the country and sought asylum elsewhere.
Usage tips
Formal
Jewish refusenik, Soviet refusenik, political refusenik
noun
A person who applies for permission to emigrate but is denied that right, especially in reference to Jews in the former Soviet Union.
The refuseniks fought for their right to leave the country and sought asylum elsewhere.
Usage tips
Formal
Jewish refusenik, Soviet refusenik, political refusenik
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Cultural Reference
The term is often associated with the Soviet Union and can evoke strong emotional responses due to its historical significance.
Many refuseniks had strong ties to their cultural heritage and fought for their right to preserve it.
Pro Tip 2/3Ethical Stance
Using the term indicates a refusal based on principles, often admired in contexts of activism.
In modern usage, a refusenik may refer to someone refusing military service for ethical reasons.
Pro Tip 3/3Political Context
Understanding the historical context of the term can help clarify its use in discussions about human rights.
Refuseniks are sometimes cited in debates about freedom and state control.
Pro Tip 1/3Cultural Reference
The term is often associated with the Soviet Union and can evoke strong emotional responses due to its historical significance.
Many refuseniks had strong ties to their cultural heritage and fought for their right to preserve it.
Pro Tip 2/3Ethical Stance
Using the term indicates a refusal based on principles, often admired in contexts of activism.
In modern usage, a refusenik may refer to someone refusing military service for ethical reasons.
Pro Tip 3/3Political Context
Understanding the historical context of the term can help clarify its use in discussions about human rights.
Refuseniks are sometimes cited in debates about freedom and state control.
Pro Tip 1/3Cultural Reference
The term is often associated with the Soviet Union and can evoke strong emotional responses due to its historical significance.
Many refuseniks had strong ties to their cultural heritage and fought for their right to preserve it.
Pro Tip 2/3Ethical Stance
Using the term indicates a refusal based on principles, often admired in contexts of activism.
In modern usage, a refusenik may refer to someone refusing military service for ethical reasons.
Pro Tip 3/3Political Context
Understanding the historical context of the term can help clarify its use in discussions about human rights.
Refuseniks are sometimes cited in debates about freedom and state control.
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