despotism

noun
UK: /ˈdes.pə.tɪ.zəm/
US: /ˈdes.pə.tɪ.zəm/

  1. A system of government where one person has total power, often using it in a cruel way.

    1. The country suffered under years of despotism.
    2. The revolution aimed to overthrow the despotism and establish a democracy promoting freedom.

  2. The exercise of absolute authority or tyrannical power.

    1. His despotism made everyone fear him.
    2. The manager's despotism created a negative work environment impacting team morale.

Synonyms

tyranny dictatorship autocracy

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "despotism" in English means: A system of government where one person has total power, often using it in a cruel way., The exercise of absolute authority or tyrannical power..

The phonetic transcription of "despotism" is /ˈdes.pə.tɪ.zəm/ in British English and /ˈdes.pə.tɪ.zəm/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "despotism": tyranny, dictatorship, autocracy.

Example usage of "despotism": "The country suffered under years of despotism.". More examples on the page.