Definition

Proper noun * Thomas Paine: An American Revolutionary leader and author, born in England, who was a highly influential pamphleteer. He is best known for passionately advocating for the American colonists' fight for independence from Britain and, later, for supporting the principles of the French Revolution.

Usage

• Tom Paine is used to refer to the historical figure, his ideas, or his written works. The name is synonymous with revolutionary political thought and persuasive writing in the late 18th century.
  • The writings of Tom Paine inspired many to support independence.
  • He is often compared to Tom Paine for his fiery political essays.

Advanced Usage

• "A Tom Paine": Used figuratively to describe a person who is a radical pamphleteer or a revolutionary writer agitating for political change.
  • The journalist was hailed as a modern Tom Paine for his exposés on government corruption.

Variants and Related Words

• Thomas Paine: The full, formal name of the individual.
• Paineite (adj/noun): A rare term relating to or being a follower of the political ideas of Thomas Paine.
• Pamphleteer (noun): A writer of pamphlets, especially on controversial subjects; a role for which Paine is the archetype.

Synonyms

• Revolutionary writer
• Political pamphleteer
• American patriot (in the context of the American Revolution)

Related Phrases and Concepts

• "Common Sense": Refers to Paine's immensely influential 1776 pamphlet arguing for American independence. It is often cited as a key text.
  • Paine's 'Common Sense' was a bestseller in the colonies.
• "The American Crisis": Refers to a series of pamphlets by Paine written to bolster morale during the American Revolutionary War, famous for the opening line, "These are the times that try men's souls."
• "The Rights of Man": Refers to Paine's 1791 work defending the French Revolution and arguing for popular political rights.

Noun

1. American Revolutionary leader and pamphleteer (born in England) who supported the American colonist's fight for independence and supported the French Revolution (1737-1809)