autocrat

[ aw-tuh-krat ]

noun

1. an absolute ruler, especially a monarch who holds and exercises the powers of government as by inherent right, not subject to restrictions.
2. a person invested with or claiming to exercise absolute authority.
3. a person who behaves in an authoritarian manner; a domineering person.

autocrat

/ ˈɔːtəˌkræt /

noun

1. a ruler who possesses absolute and unrestricted authority
2. a domineering or dictatorial person

Word History and Origins

Origin of autocrat¹

First recorded in 1795–1805; from Greek autokratḗs “self-ruling, ruling alone,” from auto- auto- ¹ + krát(os) “power” + -ēs, adjective suffix

Example Sentences

Donald Trump is moving very quickly with his “shock and awe” plans to rule as an autocrat who views multiracial pluralistic democracy and its system of checks and balance as an impediment to his power.

From Salon

They will help determine whether Trump can undo the checks and balances the founders wrote into the Constitution, and turn the executive branch into an instrument of a would-be autocrat’s will.

From Los Angeles Times

Authoritarians, fascists, autocrats, and demagogues actively encourage such malaise and surrender and related sentiments and behavior.

From Salon

Another Trump term will damage the climate, shatter alliances, and strengthen autocrats.

From Salon

Foreign allies are no doubt meeting with their national security people as we speak, implementing plans to distance themselves from the United States, knowing Trump's affinity for autocrats like Russia's Putin and Hungary's Orbán.

From Salon

Related Words

• despot
• tyrant