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DESPOTIC

Pronunciation (US):

Dictionary entry overview: What does despotic mean?

• DESPOTIC (adjective)
The adjective DESPOTIC has 3 senses:

1. belonging to or having the characteristics of a despot
2. ruled by or characteristic of a despot
3. characteristic of an absolute ruler or absolute rule; having absolute sovereignty

Familiarity information: DESPOTIC used as an adjective is uncommon.

Dictionary entry details

• DESPOTIC (adjective)

Sense 1

despotic ^{[BACK TO TOP]}

Meaning:

Belonging to or having the characteristics of a despot

Classified under:

Relational adjectives (pertainyms)

Synonyms:

despotic; despotical

Pertainym:

despot (a cruel and oppressive dictator)

Sense 2

despotic ^{[BACK TO TOP]}

Meaning:

Ruled by or characteristic of a despot

Context examples:

moved from a feudal to a despotic order / his administration was arrogant and despotic

Similar:

undemocratic (not in agreement with or according to democratic doctrine or practice or ideals)

Sense 3

despotic ^{[BACK TO TOP]}

Meaning:

Characteristic of an absolute ruler or absolute rule; having absolute sovereignty

Synonyms:

authoritarian; autocratic; despotic; tyrannical; dictatorial

Context examples:

an authoritarian regime / autocratic government / despotic rulers / a dictatorial rule that lasted for the duration of the war / a tyrannical government

Similar:

undemocratic (not in agreement with or according to democratic doctrine or practice or ideals)

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