释义 |
mach·i·a·vel·li·an I. \| ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷|velēən, -lyən\ adjective Usage: usually capitalized Etymology: Niccolò Machiavelli + English -an 1. : of or relating to Machiavelli or his political theory (as the doctrine that any means however lawless or unscrupulous may be justifiably employed by a ruler in order to establish and maintain a strong central government) 2. : resembling or suggesting the principles of conduct laid down by Machiavelli : characterized by political cunning, duplicity, or bad faith II. noun (-s) Usage: usually capitalized : an adherent to the political doctrine of Machiavelli : a person characterized by Machiavellian behavior especially in political matters |