Alapulók

Alapulók is a Hungarian plural noun that designates people who lay the foundations of something, such as an organization, project, or movement. In everyday Hungarian, the term most often used for such people is alapítók (founders). Alapulók appears primarily in historical or literary contexts and is not common in contemporary prose. When used, it tends to highlight the act of establishing the framework or principles rather than merely identifying the individuals.

Etymology and form: The word is derived from alapul, meaning to base or found, and takes the agentive suffix -ó/-ók, yielding “those who base” or “foundation-builders.” It is related conceptually to alapítás (founding) and alapító (founder), though alapulók is rarely the preferred term in modern usage.

Usage notes: Because alapítók is the standard term, alapulók may seem archaic or stylistically marked. It may appear in historical narratives, legal-historical documents, or stylized writing aiming to evoke an older or more formal tone. When clarity is desired in neutral writing, alapítók is recommended.

See also: alapító, alapítvány, alapítás, alapuló.