Definition of "reactionary" in English

adjective

1. (politics) Extremely conservative; opposing revolution (such as the French Revolution); favoring a return to a "golden age" of the past.

2. (chemistry) Of, pertaining to, participating in, or inducing a chemical reaction.

3. In reaction to; as a result of.

noun

1. (politics) One who opposes revolution, wanting to reverse it, favoring a return to a past golden age. Often used as a derogatory by revolutionaires.