Despotism
[n] a form of government in which the ruler is an absolute dictator (not restricted by a constitution or laws or opposition etc.)
[n] dominance through threat of punishment and violence
Related Information
Synonyms
absolutism, absolutism, authoritarianism, Caesarism, dictatorship, monocracy, one-man rule, shogunate, Stalinism, totalitarianism, tyranny, tyranny
Related Terms
absolute monarchy, absolutism, argumentum baculinum, autarchy, authoritarianism, autocracy, benevolent despotism, big stick, Caesarism, czarism, dictatorship, domination, domineering, fascism, heavy hand, high hand, iron boot, iron hand, iron heel, kaiser