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despotism - Dictionary Page

despotism

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

English: /ˈdɛspəˌtɪzəm/, /ˈdɛspəˌtɪzm/

Definitions

  1. Absolute power or control exercised by a ruler with unrestricted authority.
  2. A political system where the ruler holds total power, typically in a cruel or oppressive way.
  3. Any oppressive or dictatorial rule or leadership.

Usage Examples

  • The revolution aimed to overthrow the prevailing despotism.
  • Despotism stifles freedom and curtails human rights.
  • The king's despotism led to widespread unrest among the people.

Etymology

Derived from the French despotisme, from Greek despotēs meaning "master" or "lord."

Synonyms

  • Autocracy
  • Dictatorship
  • Tyranny
  • Totalitarianism
  • Absolutism

Antonyms

  • Democracy
  • Liberation
  • Equality
  • Freedom
  • Republic

Translations

Language Translations Pronunciations
French despotisme /dɛspɔtism/
Spanish despotismo /despoˈtismo/
German Despotismus /dɛspoˈtɪsmʊs/
Hindi तानाशाही /taːnaːʃaːhiː/
Tamil ஆட்சியாளராட்சி /āṭciyāḷarāṭci/
Russian деспотизм /dʲɪspɐˈtʲizm/
Arabic الاستبداد /al-istibdaːd/
Chinese (Mandarin) 专制主义 /zhuān zhì zhǔ yì/

Regional Pronunciation Variations

  • British English: /ˈdɛspəˌtɪzəm/
  • American English: /ˈdɛspəˌtɪzm/

Historical Usage

Despotism has been used since the early 18th century, especially in political and philosophical contexts to criticize authoritarian governments.

Cultural Nuances

The term is often used to criticize rulers who abuse their authority and violate human rights.

More Information

Despotism has historically been associated with monarchies and dictatorial regimes, where rulers exercise unchecked power. It contrasts with democratic systems, which promote individual freedoms and shared governance.

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