militician means an outwardly democratic politician who gained, and retains power with the help of a military establishment. Lexicurio rates it Rare gem — a strength score of 78 out of 100.
Why “militician” is a great word
An outwardly democratic politician who gains and retains power with the support of a military establishment. A blend of 'military' and 'politician', first attested in 1995. Unlike a 'politician', who must navigate the uncertain currents of public opinion, or a 'military dictator', who rules by the naked fist of a junta, the militician operates in the liminal space between the two, a civilian suit tailored over a bulletproof vest. It is the polished candidate who campaigns with generals standing just behind the podium; it is the elected official whose every policy is whispered first in the officers’ club; it is the smiling president whose tenure depends not on the ballot box but on the silent, continued acquiescence of the barracks. He is the architecture of a captured state, where every democratic institution stands as a hollow façade, maintained only so long as it casts the approved shadow.
Etymology
Blend of military + politician.
noun
- An outwardly democratic politician who gained, and retains power with the help of a military establishment