Definition of Machiavelli, Niccolò
(1469–1527), Italian statesman and political philosopher; full name Niccolò di Bernardo dei Machiavelli. His best-known work is The Prince (1532), which advises rulers that the acquisition and effective use of power may necessitate unethical methods. (as noun
a Machiavelli)
a person perceived as prepared to use unethical means to gain an advantage.
