Definition of progressive

The word "progressive" originated in the mid-19th century and was used first in a political context. It described individuals who advocated for social, political, and economic reforms that would lead to advancement and improvement in society. The roots of the word can be traced back to the Latin word "progressus," which means "moving forward" or "advancing." This term was adopted by the French, who used "progressiste" to refer to those who favored modernizing and liberalizing political and economic systems. In the United States, the term "progressive" gained popularity during the early 20th century as part of a broader movement for social and political change. Progressives advocated for reforms such as direct democracy, reducing the influence of big business, and increasing government regulation to promote social welfare. Today, the term "progressive" continues to be used in political discourse, often associated with political parties or individuals who promote policies that focus on social justice, equality, and environmental sustainability.