right wing

American  

noun

1. members of a conservative or reactionary political party, or those opposing extensive political reform.

2. such a political party or a group of such parties.

3. that part of a political or social organization advocating a conservative or reactionary position.

   The union's right wing favored a moderate course of action.

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right wing British  

noun

1. (often capitals) the conservative faction of an assembly, party, etc

2. the part of an army or field of battle on the right from the point of view of one facing the enemy

3. 1. the right-hand side of the field of play from the point of view of a team facing its opponent's goal

   2. a player positioned in this area in any of various games

   3. the position occupied by such a player

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adjective

1. of, belonging to, or relating to the right wing

right-wing ¹ Cultural  

1. A descriptive term for conservative or reactionary political views, particularly those supporting the current social order or calling for a return to an earlier order. Right-wing groups are sometimes known collectively as the Right. (Compare left-wing.)

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right-wing ² Cultural  

1. A descriptive term for an individual or a political faction that advocates very conservative policies. Right-wing groups generally support free enterprise. In the United States, the right wing generally argues for a strong national defense program and opposes federal involvement in promoting social welfare. (Compare left-wing.)

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Discover More

Although both major political parties in the United States have right-wing factions, right-wing policies are usually associated with the Republican party.

Other Word Forms

• right-wing adjective
• right-winger noun

Etymology

Origin of right wing

First recorded in 1930–35

Compare meaning

How does right-wing compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• left wing vs. right wing

Example Sentences

Rogers was played from the right wing for England during the match as Tuchel experimented with his attackers.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

While Stockdale marked his return by scoring Ireland's opening try, Farrell has restored Leinster's O'Brien, who can also cover the right wing.

From BBC • Mar. 12, 2026

Feyi-Waboso's place on the right wing on Saturday will be taken by Tom Roebuck, making his first England appearance since starting against New Zealand in November following a toe problem.

From Barron's • Feb. 6, 2026

United looked to have collapsed in stoppage-time when Kevin cut in from the right wing and curled a sublime strike into the far corner from the edge of the area.

From Barron's • Feb. 1, 2026

Miss Sarah held Miss Rose, whose right wing was bandaged to her side.

From "Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky" by Kwame Mbalia