Orwell

/ˈɔrwɛl/ proper noun

Definition

George Orwell (1903-1950), British author known for dystopian novels '1984' and 'Animal Farm' that critiqued totalitarianism.

Etymology

Pen name of Eric Arthur Blair, derived from the River Orwell in Suffolk, England. Blair chose this name in 1933 for his first book, selecting it for its English character and pleasant sound, helping distance his literary work from his family.

Kelly Says

Orwell's invented surname became so associated with dystopian surveillance that 'Orwellian' entered the language as an adjective meaning oppressive governmental control. Few authors have had their names become common descriptors of political concepts, making Orwell both a person and a permanent part of political vocabulary.

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