Leftist

The term Leftist refers to someone on the 'left' side of the political spectrum. Politics on the 'left' usually imply taking positions in favor of poor, powerless, or oppressed people. Therefore communists, socialists, and social democrats are usually considered leftists, as are feminists, gay rights activists, and people who oppose racism.

Of course, it is not obvious that there is just one dimension of political thought, so that people can unambiguously be classified as 'right' or 'left'. Nonetheless, the left/right distinction is mentioned in many countries.

The word 'liberal' is often used in the US to mean 'leftist'. But this is inconsistent with the original meaning of the word liberal.

Compare: Rightist