First Known Use: 1509
Dictionary
faction
noun fac·tion \ˈfak-shən\
: a group within a larger group that has different ideas and opinions than the rest of the group
Full Definition of FACTION
1
: a party or group (as within a government) that is often contentious or self-seeking : clique
2
: party spirit especially when marked by dissension
— fac·tion·al \-shnəl, -shə-nəl\ adjective
— fac·tion·al·ism \-shnə-ˌli-zəm, -shə-nə-ˌliz-\ noun
— fac·tion·al·ly \-ē\ adverb
See faction defined for English-language learners
See faction defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of FACTION
Middle French & Latin; Middle French, from Latin faction-, factio act of making, faction — more at fashion
Other Government and Politics Terms
Learn More About FACTION
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: -factionPrevious Word in the Dictionary: fact in issueAll Words Near: faction
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up faction? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).