Despotism: meaning, definitions and examples

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despotism

[ ˈdɛspəˌtɪzəm ]

^{Context #1}

government control

Despotism refers to a form of government in which a single entity rules with absolute power and authority, often exercising oppressive control over its citizens.

Synonyms

autocracy, dictatorship, tyranny

Examples of usage

Under the despotism of the dictator, the citizens had no freedom of speech.
The despotism of the monarchy led to widespread dissatisfaction among the population.

^{Context #2}

domineering behavior

Despotism can also refer to the behavior of a person who exercises tyrannical control over others, often in a harsh and cruel manner.

Synonyms

dominance, oppression, tyrannical behavior

Examples of usage

The boss's despotism in the office created a toxic work environment.
Her despotism over her siblings made family gatherings tense and unpleasant.

Translations

Translations of the word "despotism" in other languages:

🇵🇹 despotismo

🇮🇳 निरंकुशता

🇩🇪 Despotismus

🇮🇩 despotisme

🇺🇦 деспотизм

🇵🇱 despotyzm

🇯🇵 専制政治

🇫🇷 despotisme

🇪🇸 despotismo

🇹🇷 despotizm

🇰🇷 전제주의

🇸🇦 استبداد

🇨🇿 despotismus

🇸🇰 despotizmus

🇨🇳 专制

🇸🇮 despotizem

🇮🇸 einræðisstefna

🇰🇿 деспотизм

🇬🇪 დესპოტიზმი

🇦🇿 despotizm

🇲🇽 despotismo

Word origin

The term 'despotism' originated from the Greek word 'despotes', meaning 'master' or 'lord'. It was initially used to describe rulers with absolute power in ancient Greece. Over time, the concept evolved to encompass oppressive and tyrannical forms of government or behavior. Despotism has been a subject of philosophical and political debate, with thinkers like Montesquieu and Locke critiquing its dangers to individual freedom and democracy.