Politicker

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A person who takes part in political affairs, usually with a negative implication of scheming or unscrupulous behavior
2. An individual involved in politics, often characterized by manipulative or self-serving tactics
3. One who actively manages political matters, typically seen as engaging in opportunistic or unethical strategies

Etymology: "Politicker" is a plain formation: the adjective "politic" with the agent suffix "-er" added, producing a noun for someone who practises politics. The base "politic" comes ultimately from Greek "politikos", relating to the city or citizens, and reached English through Latin and French, where it carried ideas of prudence and governance. The suffix does the rest of the work here, turning the activity into a person. The notable thing is the tone the suffix has picked up. Sitting alongside "politician", which can be neutral or even admiring, "politicker" tends to carry a sneer, suggesting someone who manoeuvres for advantage rather than serves a cause. The word thus reads as a deliberate downgrade of a close relative, with the same root but a much less flattering use.

Synonyms: politician, candidate, elect, lawmaker, officeholder