despot

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.

Many of the leaders we put into power became despots we tolerated until they ran their course, like Panama’s Manuel Noriega.

From Los Angeles Times

We aren’t in danger of being taken over by a despot.

From Salon

They are only a sticking point for would-be kings and despots who successfully deceive and subjugate the masses.

From Salon

“We will never let the evil will of a sad, malignant despot dictate how we treat one another,” said the Greyhound Bar & Grill in Highland Park.

From Los Angeles Times

Ben-Ghiat goes on to explain that this is often a way that despots exert power, observing:

From Salon