despotism Definition
- 1the exercise of absolute power, especially in a cruel and oppressive way
- 2a country or political system where the ruler holds absolute power
Using despotism: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "despotism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The country was ruled by despotism for decades.
Example
The king's despotism led to widespread poverty and suffering.
Example
The people rose up against the despotism of the regime.
Example
The despotism of the boss made it difficult for employees to speak up.
despotism Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for despotism
- tyranny
- autocracy
- totalitarianism
- oppression
- dictatorship
Phrases with despotism
a form of government in which an absolute monarch uses his or her power for the good of the people
Example
Frederick the Great of Prussia is often cited as an example of enlightened despotism.
a form of government in which an absolute ruler exercises power with the goal of improving the lives of his or her subjects
Example
Some argue that Singapore is an example of benevolent despotism, with its strict laws and regulations aimed at creating a prosperous society.
Example
Many Latin American countries have experienced periods of military despotism in their history.
Origins of despotism
from French 'despotisme', from Greek 'despotes', meaning 'master'
Summary: despotism in Brief
Despotism [ˈdɛspətɪzəm] refers to the exercise of absolute power, often in a cruel and oppressive way. It can also refer to a country or political system where the ruler holds absolute power. Examples include 'The country was ruled by despotism for decades.' and 'The despotism of the boss made it difficult for employees to speak up.' Despotism can take on different forms, such as enlightened despotism, benevolent despotism, and military despotism.
