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despotism
IPA:
Dictionary definition of despotism
A form of government or rule characterized by the exercise of absolute power and control by a single ruler or a small group of individuals.
"The despotism of the monarchy was challenged by a growing resistance movement."
Detailed meaning of despotism
Despotism is often associated with authoritarian regimes that display tyrannical and oppressive tendencies. In a system of despotism, the ruler or ruling group holds unchecked authority, disregarding the rights, freedoms, and well-being of the governed. Despotic governments typically suppress dissent, curtail civil liberties, and maintain their power through force, intimidation, and propaganda. Despotism is characterized by a lack of accountability, transparency, and respect for the rule of law. It often leads to widespread corruption, human rights abuses, and a lack of opportunities for political participation and social progress. The term "despotism" carries a negative connotation, highlighting the unjust and arbitrary nature of the ruling power, which disregards the welfare and aspirations of the people it governs.
Example sentences containing despotism
1. The citizens suffered under the despotism of the oppressive regime.
2. The country's history was marred by centuries of despotism and autocratic rule.
3. The overthrow of despotism sparked a wave of hope and optimism among the people.
4. The tyrant's despotism led to widespread poverty and suffering.
5. The fight against despotism became a rallying cry for democracy and freedom.
6. The despotism of the ruler stifled dissent and silenced any opposition.
History and etymology of despotism
The noun 'despotism' has its etymological origins in Greek, much like the related term 'despotic.' It is derived from the Greek word 'despotes,' which means 'master' or 'lord,' and the suffix '-ism,' which is used to form nouns indicating a system, practice, or ideology. In ancient Greece, a 'despotes' was someone who held absolute power and authority over others, often in a tyrannical or oppressive manner. The concept of 'despotism' emerged to describe systems of government or rule characterized by the exercise of absolute power and control by a single ruler or a small group of individuals, with little to no regard for the rights or freedoms of the governed. This term's etymology reflects its historical association with oppressive and authoritarian forms of governance where the ruler is akin to a master or lord with unchecked authority.
Further usage examples of despotism
1. The nation struggled to break free from the shackles of despotism and establish a democratic system.
2. The citizens yearned for liberation from the clutches of despotism.
3. The international community condemned the despotism and human rights abuses of the regime.
4. The people's uprising aimed to dismantle the structures of despotism and create a more equitable society.
5. The transition from despotism to democracy required the dismantling of oppressive institutions.
6. The citizens revolted against the oppressive despotism.
7. Under the shadow of despotism, freedom was a distant dream.
8. The history books were filled with tales of despotism.
9. The nation yearned for liberation from the grip of despotism.
10. Despotism led to the downfall of once-great empires.
11. The resistance fought tirelessly against the forces of despotism.
12. Citizens dared to challenge the entrenched despotism.
13. The oppressive despotism stifled creativity and innovation.
14. The tyrant's despotism extended to every aspect of life.
15. The people's suffering under despotism fueled their rebellion.
16. The struggle for democracy was a battle against despotism.
17. Despotism left a legacy of fear and distrust among the people.
18. The revolution aimed to topple the shackles of despotism.
19. The intellectuals condemned the ruling class's despotism.
20. Despotism often led to economic and social inequality.
21. The nation's history was marred by cycles of despotism.
22. The despotism of the monarchy was overthrown in a coup.
23. The Enlightenment era questioned the legitimacy of despotism.
24. Citizens yearned for a future free from the grip of despotism.
25. The struggle against despotism was a fight for basic rights.
Synonyms for despotism
Quiz categories containing despotism
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Suffix -ism, GRE 2 (Graduate Record Examination), Guile and Duplicity, Dominance and Dissent, Chasms and Carnage, Hegemony and Hierarchies, Politics and Government
absolutism,autocracy,dictatorship,oppression,totalitarianism,tyranny
autarchy,authoritarianism,monocracy
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tyranny, democracy, republicanism, freedom
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