despotism
Translation
tyranny, dictatorship, autocracy
Examples
The people suffered under years of despotism.
The people suffered under years of despotism.
He ruled with an iron fist of despotism.
He ruled with an iron fist of despotism.
Grammar Patterns
despotism absolute political power The people suffered under years of despotism.
Similar Words
Synonyms: tyranny, dictatorship, autocracy; Antonyms: democracy, freedom
Etymology
From Greek 'despotēs' (master of a household, absolute ruler), from 'des-' (related to 'domos', house) + 'potis' (master).
Memory Tips
Think of a 'des-POT' who is a 'master' ('potis') and rules absolutely over everyone.