Tory
(noun)
- A member or supporter of the Conservative Party in the United Kingdom.
- A historical political party in the United Kingdom, which was one of the two main political parties in the 18th and 19th centuries (the other being the Whigs).
Origin:
Mid 17th century: from irish and scottish gaelic toraidhe "outlaw, robber", later used as a term of abuse for irish and scottish presbyterian rebels who adhered to the royalist cause in the english civil war (compare with whig).
Examples:
- She was a proud Tory and voted Conservative in every election.
- The Tories have held power in the UK for much of the past century.
- The 18th-century Tories were known for their support of the monarchy and the Church of England.
- The Tory party was divided on the issue of Brexit.
- Many Tories believe in a smaller state and lower taxes.