Russophilous

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Expressing a strong admiration for or affection toward Russian culture, society, or political ideals; showing a preference for or alignment with Russia in international contexts; characterized by sympathy for Russian people and their traditions
2. Demonstrating notable favoritism or positive regard toward Russia and its cultural heritage; advocating for friendly relations with Russian society; having an affinity for Russian language, customs, or geopolitical perspectives
3. Indicating a fondness or supportive attitude toward Russian national identity and practices; endorsing or appreciating Russian influence and engagements abroad; marked by an inclination to align oneself with Russian interests and cultural values

Etymology: Russophilous is built from "Russo-", the combining form of "Russia" (from Medieval Latin "Russia," itself from Rus, the name of the East Slavic people and state), and the Greek suffix "-philos," meaning "loving" or "fond of," which gives English words like "philanthropic" and "bibliophile." Put together, it simply means fond of Russia, in the same way "Anglophilous" describes admiration for England. The word is a modern formation from classical building blocks, not something ancient writers used. English has a family of "-philous" adjectives coined in the same way, and "russophilous" follows that pattern, sitting alongside its opposite, "russophobe," which is formed from the same "Russo-" element with the Greek "-phobos," meaning fear or hatred.

Synonyms: pro-Russian, Russophile, Russophilic

Antonyms: Russophobic, anti-Russian