Despotismo (en. Despotism)
/des.poˈtizmo/
Meaning & Definition
EnglishSpanish
noun
A form of government characterized by the authoritarian power of a leader.
The king's despotism caused the population to suffer great injustices.
El despotismo del rey hizo que la población sufriera grandes injusticias.
Absolute and tyrannical dominion over a group of people.
The despotism in the company led to a high turnover of staff.
El despotismo en la empresa llevó a una alta rotación de personal.
Condition or state of exercising power oppressively.
The reforms were insufficient to end despotism in the country.
Las reformas fueron insuficientes para acabar con el despotismo en el país.
Etymology
From the Greek 'despótēs' meaning 'lord' or 'master'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
enlightened despotism
A style of government that combines despotism with Enlightenment ideas, promoting the well-being of the people without granting them political power.
despotismo ilustrado
under despotism
A situation in which a group is subjected to the arbitrary authority of an individual.
bajo despotismo
Related Words
despot
Ruler who exercises power oppressively and authoritarily.
déspota
tyranny
Government of a tyrant, characterized by oppression and lack of freedoms.
tiranía
authoritarianism
A form of government that concentrates power in the state or in a single leader, restricting individual freedoms.
autoritarismo
Slang Meanings
Exaggerated use of power
Some say that the new boss acts with despotism in the office.
Algunos dicen que el nuevo jefe actúa con despotismo en la oficina.
Totalitarian control
The work environment was one of despotism; no one could question the manager's decisions.
El ambiente laboral era de despotismo, nadie podía cuestionar las decisiones del manager.