Republic is formed from two Latin words res (thing) and publica (public); it literally means 'the public thing(s)'. In the Latin context, it means 'affairs affecting the state', 'the state' itself, or 'the constitution' of the state".(1) The Latin word republic is similiar in meaning to the Greek word politea.

Both words constitute the meaning of state; the state being one that is made up of different classes of people and all involved in the governing of the polity. Simply stated: a republic is a "mixed government". A republic, in the classical form, is a form of government that has mixed the best elements of the classes together.

It marks out the duties and responsibilities of the different bodies. It includes all citizens in government and excludes none. It provides checks and balances on all so that all live in harmony. This is not to be confused as a separation of powers; a republic is a co-operation of classes without anyone of them being dominant. A Republic is an harmony of the state under the rule of law.