Meaning & Definition of word "Dictatorship"

Dictatorship

/dɪkˈteɪtəˌʃɪp/

1. A system of government in which a single person or party possesses absolute power, often obtained and maintained by force.
- Example: The country lived under a harsh dictatorship for decades until a peaceful revolution restored democracy.
2. The exercise of absolute power or control over a group or organization.
- Example: The dictatorship of the organization stifled creativity and independent thought among its members.
3. A government or political system in which power is concentrated in a dictator or a small group.
- Example: Many citizens opposed the dictatorship, calling for free elections and political reforms.

From Latin dictare ('to say, proclaim') and -ship denoting a state or condition.

benevolent dictatorship:

A governing system where a dictator exercises absolute power but does so with the intention of benefiting the populace.

military dictatorship:

A form of dictatorship in which the military controls the government.

single-party dictatorship:

A political system where a single political party forms the government and no other parties are allowed to operate.

dictator:

A ruler with total power over a country, typically one who has obtained control by force.

authoritarian:

Favoring or enforcing strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom.

totalitarian:

Relating to a system of government that is centralized and dictatorial and requires complete subservience to the state.

Meaning: The Big Cheese

Example Sentence: In our organization, he's the Big Cheese, making all the decisions unilaterally.

Meaning: Bossman

Example Sentence: Under the current regime, the Bossman doesn't tolerate any criticism.