Autocrat: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word to describe a ruler with absolute power, often not restricted by laws or constitutions; generally neutral but can imply a lack of democracy.

• The country was ruled by an autocrat who had no limits on his power.
• As an autocrat, he made decisions without consulting anyone.

Commonly used to describe a ruler with total power over a country, typically one who has obtained power by force; generally negative.

• The dictator suspended the constitution and dissolved the parliament.
• After the coup, he installed himself as the dictator of the nation.

Best used to describe a ruler who exercises power in a cruel or oppressive way; has a strong negative connotation.

• The despot imposed harsh penalties on anyone who dared to criticize him.
• Living under a despot made life unbearable for the citizens.

Useful to describe a ruler who is cruel and unjust; has a very strong negative connotation.

• The tyrant's reign was marked by fear and widespread suffering.
• People revolted against the tyrant who had oppressed them for years.

Appropriate for describing a governance style where power is concentrated in one authority, and strict obedience is required from the population, often with limited political freedoms.

• The authoritarian regime banned all opposition parties.
• An authoritarian leader often controls the media and suppresses dissent.

This word is best used to describe a ruler or leader who holds absolute power and expects unquestioning obedience. It often has political or historical connotations.

• The country fell under the rule of an autocrat who dissolved the parliament.
• Historians often compare him to the autocrats of the past century.

This term is suitable for describing a governing style or regime that demands strict obedience at the cost of personal freedom. It can be applied to both political contexts or organizational environments.

• The authoritarian regime restricted free speech and assembly.
• The company's authoritarian management style led to low employee morale.

This word is often used in informal or everyday situations to describe someone who tends to give orders in a way that irritates others. It has a negative connotation.

• My older sister is so bossy; she always tells me what to do.
• His bossy attitude made him unpopular among his colleagues.

This word describes someone who asserts their will over others in an arrogant way, often used in contexts where someone's overbearing behavior is being criticized.

• Her domineering personality made it difficult for her to maintain friendships.
• He was known for his domineering approach to leadership, often stifling creativity.

This term is used to describe someone who tries to dominate or manage every aspect, often in personal relationships or work settings. Its use tends to suggest a negative view of their behavior.

• Her controlling boyfriend wouldn't let her go out with her friends.
• The manager's controlling nature made it hard for the team to work independently.