despotism

[ des-puh-tiz-uhm ]

noun

1. the rule of a despot; the exercise of absolute authority.
2. absolute power or control; tyranny.
3. an absolute or autocratic government.
4. a country ruled by a despot.

despotism

/ ˈdɛspəˌtɪzəm /

noun

1. the rule of a despot; arbitrary, absolute, or tyrannical government
2. arbitrary or tyrannical authority or behaviour

despotism

1. Unlimited political rule by one person.

Notes

The term usually suggests unscrupulous rule, or tyranny.

Word History and Origins

Origin of despotism¹

From the French word despotisme, dating back to 1720–30. See despot, -ism

Example Sentences

So they bequeathed us the separation of powers and the associated checks and balances ideally expected to counter such despotism.

From Salon

Mr. Turk told the crowd that the elder Assad’s regime had “relied on terror” and called Bashar’s rule “illegitimate,” saying it represented “despotism.”

From New York Times

He has bullied, cornered, cajoled, bribed and threatened most of the rest of the GOP into following him into despotism.

From Salon

Mr Jones claimed Mr Williams had run "a regime of despotism" throughout his daughter's tenure at the channel and sacked her "without consultation".

From BBC

We recognize that everyone has equal rights under the law, we are and have been the beacon that cuts through the fog of theocracy, despotism and political malignancy.

From Salon

Related Words

• authoritarianism
• autocracy
• tyranny