Kulak - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A kulak was a prosperous peasant in Russia, particularly before the Soviet collectivization policies. The term was often used negatively to describe wealthy farmers who opposed communist reforms.
Definition:
A wealthy or prosperous peasant in Russia, often persecuted under Soviet rule.
Synonyms:
farmer, landowner, agriculturist
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
proletarian, serf
Common Collocations:
Soviet kulaks, wealthy kulaks, persecuted kulaks
Derivatives:
kulakism, kulakization
Usage Tips:
Use "kulak" historically to refer to affluent Russian peasants targeted during Soviet collectivization.
Common Phrases:
enemy of the people, class enemy
Etymology:
From Russian "кулак" (fist), metaphorically meaning a tight-fisted or greedy person.
Examples:
- 1. The kulaks resisted collectivization fiercely.
- 2. Stalin's policies targeted the kulaks as class enemies.
- 3. Many kulaks were exiled to Siberia.
- 4. The term "kulak" became a political label.