Authoritarian: meaning, definitions and examples
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authoritarian
[ əˌθɒr.ɪˈteə.ri.ən ]
political
Favoring or enforcing strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom. Characterized by a concentration of power in a leader or an elite not constitutionally responsible to the people.
Synonyms
autocratic, dictatorial, oppressive, totalitarian
Examples of usage
- The country's government had become increasingly authoritarian, limiting the rights of its citizens.
- The authoritarian regime cracked down on dissenting voices in the media.
person
A person who favors or enforces strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom. A ruler who exercises power in a harsh and oppressive way.
Synonyms
despot, dictator, totalitarian, tyrant
Examples of usage
- The leader was known for being an authoritarian, rarely allowing any opposition.
- The authoritarian was criticized for his lack of tolerance towards differing opinions.
Translations
Translations of the word "authoritarian" in other languages:
🇵🇹 autoritário
🇮🇳 सत्तावादी
🇩🇪 autorität
🇮🇩 otoriter
🇺🇦 авторитарний
🇵🇱 autorytarny
🇯🇵 権威主義的な
🇫🇷 autoritaire
🇪🇸 autoritario
🇹🇷 otoriter
🇰🇷 권위주의적인
🇸🇦 استبدادي
🇨🇿 autoritářský
🇸🇰 autoritárny
🇨🇳 专制的
🇸🇮 avtoritaren
🇮🇸 einræðislegur
🇰🇿 авторитарлы
🇬🇪 ავტორიტარული
🇦🇿 avtoritar
🇲🇽 autoritario
Word origin
The term 'authoritarian' originated in the mid-19th century, derived from the word 'authority' with the suffix '-arian' meaning 'pertaining to'. It gained prominence during the rise of totalitarian regimes in the 20th century, describing governments that enforced strict obedience to authority. The concept of authoritarianism has been studied extensively in political science and sociology, highlighting its impact on individual rights and freedoms.
See also: authored, authoring, authoritative, authorities, authority, authorization, authorize, authorized, authorizer, authors, authorship.