Meaning & Definition of word "Despotism"

Despotism

/ˈdɛspəˌtɪzəm/

1. The exercise of absolute power, especially in a cruel and oppressive way.
- Example: The country fell into despotism when the military took control and abolished democratic institutions.
2. A political system in which a single entity rules with absolute power.
- Example: Under despotism, the leader's word became law, with no room for opposition or dissent.
3. A form of government characterized by a ruler who holds absolute power and often enforces it harshly.
- Example: The citizens protested against the despotism that had deprived them of their basic rights.

●From French 'despotisme', from Greek 'despotes' (master, lord).

benevolent despotism:

A form of governance where a ruler exercises absolute power but is perceived as kind and caring.

absolute despotism:

An extreme form of despotism where the ruler maintains total control without constitutional limitations.

despot:

A ruler who holds absolute power, often in a cruel or oppressive way.

tyrant:

A cruel and oppressive ruler.

Meaning: Rule by fear

● Example Sentence: Under his rule, the country saw the rise of despotism, where compliance was achieved through intimidation.

Meaning: The king's game

● Example Sentence: They call it the king's game, a despotism masked as a monarchy where the real power lies with the ruler.