despotic

[ dih-spot-ik ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or of the nature of a despot or despotism; autocratic; tyrannical.

Other Words From

• des·poti·cal·ly adverb
• nondes·potic adjective
• nondes·poti·cal·ly adverb
• undes·potic adjective
• undes·poti·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of despotic¹

1640–50; < French despotique < Greek despotikós. See despot, -ic

Example Sentences

In reality they were abandoned to poverty under the rule of despotic local leaders.

From BBC

Trump can’t do all the things that have enabled him to thrive as a despotic grifter his entire life.

From Salon

There's no question that Hamas’ intentions toward Jews are genocidal and nihilistic, and that it's a despotic, destructive force for the Palestinians under its rule.

From Salon

They might try to challenge their removal to a despotic regime saying their naming-and-shaming in the UK means they could be tortured back home - something our law absolutely forbids.

From BBC

They came here to escape war, political and religious persecution, lack of opportunity and corrupt systems lead by despotic strongmen or brutal theocracies.

From Los Angeles Times