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Definitions

despotism

[des-puh-tiz-uhm] / ˈdɛs pəˌtɪz əm /
NOUN
absolute power
Synonyms
Antonyms
STRONGEST


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Ivan III assumed control as an autocrat with unlimited power, unconstrained by law. Thus despotism arrived in Rus.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 29, 2026

But “of all the forms democratic despotism could take,” Tocqueville continues, “the worst would be to turn over all the powers of government to the hands of an irresponsible person.”

From Salon • May 17, 2025

Mr Jones claimed Mr Williams had run "a regime of despotism" throughout his daughter's tenure at the channel and sacked her "without consultation".

From BBC • Dec. 19, 2023

I had spent time in Iraq and knew so many Iraqis like Salam who had suffered under his despotism — and who wanted him gone.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 24, 2023

Her gentle efforts to guide the hand of destiny, by decoying her master with fertile tricks or by reticent considerations these had not bean strong enough to be recognized in the despotism of fife.

From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White




Vocabulary lists containing despotism


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