Governed (Noun)
Meaning
The body of people who are citizens of a particular government; "governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed"--Declaration of Independence.
Classification
Nouns denoting groupings of people or objects.
Examples
- The well-being of the governed should always be the primary concern of a fair and just government.
- According to democratic principles, those in power must remember that their authority is ultimately granted by the consent of the governed.
- In every society, the rights and freedoms of the governed are safeguarded by the constitution and laws of the land.
- Throughout history, many revolutions have been sparked by the desperation and discontent of the governed.
- The consent of the governed is what legitimizes the authority of any government and thus is essential for its stability and effectiveness.