Meaning & Definition of word "Authoritarian"
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Authoritarian
/ɔːˌθɔːrɪˈtɛəriən/
noun:
- 1. A person who advocates or enforces strict obedience to authority.
- Example: The authoritarian imposed his beliefs on the committee, disregarding any alternative viewpoints.
adjective:
- 1. Favoring or enforcing strict obedience to authority, especially that of the government, at the expense of personal freedom.
- Example: The country was ruled by an authoritarian regime that suppressed any form of dissent.
- 2. Relating to a governance system where individual freedoms are subordinated to the authority of the state.
- Example: Authoritarian policies often limit civil liberties and stifle political opposition.
Etymology
Derived from 'authority' with the suffix '-arian' indicating belonging or relating to.
Common Phrases and Expressions
authoritarian regime:
A government that concentrates power in a leader or small group and limits political freedoms.
authoritarian rule:
Governance characterized by strong central power linked with limited political freedom.
authoritarian personality:
A personality type that prefers conformity and submission to authority.
Related Words
autocracy:
A system of government by one person with absolute power.
totalitarian:
Relating to a system of government that is centralized and dictatorial and requires complete subservience to the state.
despotism:
The exercise of absolute power, especially in a cruel and oppressive way.
Slang Meanings of authoritarian
Meaning: A control freak
Example Sentence: He's such a control freak; he runs his group with an authoritarian style.
Meaning: Bossy boots
Example Sentence: She can be a real bossy boots, always insisting on her authority.