1. opposition to or restriction of liberal principles such as individual freedoms, democratic values, and tolerance
Usage: political science

Examples

• The rise of illiberalism in several democracies has concerned political scientists.
• Critics argued that the new policies represented a form of illiberalism.
• The professor discussed how illiberalism can emerge even in established democracies.
• Many voters rejected the candidate’s illiberalism in favor of more tolerant policies.
• The book examines the historical roots of illiberalism in Eastern Europe.
• Journalists warned that press restrictions were signs of growing illiberalism.