Definition and meaning of representative democracy: Representative democracy is a form of government in which citizens elect representatives to act and speak on their behalf. In this system, citizens can organize and express their opinions by voting for candidates who share their beliefs. This helps to ensure that the government is responsive to the needs of the people. The United States is a representative democracy, as citizens have the right to vote for their representatives in Congress, in state legislatures, and in local government. This system is designed to ensure that the government remains responsive to the needs of the people.