A Glossary of Conservative Terms

Politicians throw around lots of terms, assuming the public just knows what they're talking about. The reality is that terms like "strict constructionism" and "astroturfing" aren't very clear cut. Some terms, like "socialism" are often widely misused by the general public, and even by some in the mainstream media and on Capitol Hill.

The following political terms are used frequently in conservative discussions, but the meanings behind them are often sketchy (at best). These definitions should help clear up any disputes.

Amnesty

Astroturfing

Blue Dog Democrat

Conservatism

Crunchy Conservatism

Cultural Conservatism

Czar
(in U.S. political discourse)

Fiscal Conservatism

G-20 or Group of 20

Judicial Restraint

Marriage

Neoconservatism

Paleoconservatism

Reconciliation

Republicanism

Social Conservatism

Strict Constructionism

Socialism

Tea Party

Tort Reform