Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Considered contrary to the best interests of the United States: Describing ideas, activities, or behaviors that are viewed as opposed to the fundamental values, principles, or security of the United States of America.
   • Not characteristic of or consistent with American customs, principles, or spirit: Describing something perceived as foreign or alien to the traditional or idealized American way of life.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • The senator denounced the proposed policy as un-American.
  • During the Cold War, some forms of political dissent were labeled un-American.
  • He argued that such censorship was fundamentally un-American.

Advanced Usage

• Used in political and ideological discourse: The term is often used rhetorically to criticize or discredit opposing viewpoints by framing them as antithetical to national identity or loyalty.
  • The investigation aimed to root out un-American activities within the government.

Variants and Related Words

• Un-Americanism (n): The quality or state of being un-American; an un-American principle or practice.
  • He was accused of un-Americanism for his pacifist views.

Synonyms

• Anti-American: Opposed or hostile to the United States, its people, or its policies.
• Unpatriotic: Not expressing or feeling love for one's country.
• Subversive: Seeking or intended to undermine an established system or institution.

Notes on Meaning

• Subjective and Loaded Term: The definition of what is "un-American" is highly subjective and often depends on the speaker's political, social, and ideological perspective. Its use can be controversial.
• Historical Context: The term gained particular prominence during periods like the McCarthy era in the mid-20th century, where it was used to describe suspected communist sympathies.

Adjective

1. considered contrary to the best interests of the United States