fascistoid

Fascistoid is a term used to describe political movements, ideologies, or individuals that share certain characteristics with fascism but do not fully embody or identify with the core tenets of historical fascism. It is often employed as a pejorative or a descriptive label for phenomena that exhibit authoritarian tendencies, ultranationalism, and a strongman political style, without necessarily adhering to the full ideological framework of fascism, which typically includes elements like corporatism, racial ideology, and a singular, all-encompassing party.

The term suggests a resemblance or a close approximation to fascism, implying a shared underlying spirit or methodology. Those labeled as fascistoid might display a reverence for order and discipline, a disdain for democratic processes, a propensity for scapegoating minority groups, and a charismatic leader figure who claims to represent the will of the nation. However, the precise definition and application of "fascistoid" can be debated, as it is not a self-applied label by the groups it describes and can be used broadly to criticize a range of right-wing or authoritarian political stances. Its usage often reflects a political judgment rather than a strict ideological classification.