decemvirate

Jacobs understands the word decemvirate not to refer to any positive form of government, but generally to designate a tyranny, such as that which the Lacedaemonians used to introduce into conquered cities.

From The Olynthiacs and the Phillippics of Demosthenes Literally translated with notes by Kennedy, Charles Rann

But they soon threw off the mask of moderation, and, regardless of the approbation of the senate or the people, resolved to continue, against all order, in the decemvirate.

From Pinnock's improved edition of Dr. Goldsmith's History of Rome to which is prefixed an introduction to the study of Roman history, and a great variety of valuable information added throughout the work, on the manners, institutions, and antiquities of the Romans; with numerous biographical and historical notes; and questions for examination at the end of each section. By Wm. C. Taylor. by Pinnock, William

Another thing which greatly hurts a government is to keep alive bitter feelings in men's minds by often renewed attacks on individuals, as was done in Rome after the decemvirate was put an end to.

From Discourses on the First Decade of Titus Livius by Thomson, Ninian Hill

So, for example, the Romans might have spoken of a decemvirate after the time of Appius.

From The Olynthiacs and the Phillippics of Demosthenes Literally translated with notes by Kennedy, Charles Rann

In creating the decemvirate, therefore, both the senate and the people made grave mistakes.

From Discourses on the First Decade of Titus Livius by Thomson, Ninian Hill