The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

despotic

IPA:

Dictionary definition of despotic

Characterized by the exercise of absolute power, often with a tyrannical or oppressive nature.
"The despotic regime imprisoned political dissidents without trial."

Detailed meaning of despotic

When something or someone is described as despotic, it implies the existence of a dictatorial authority, where a single individual or group wields unrestricted control over others. Despotic leaders or regimes typically disregard the rights, freedoms, and well-being of the governed, using force, intimidation, and coercion to maintain their dominance. Despotic actions often involve suppressing dissent, curbing individual liberties, and exerting control over all aspects of society. Despotic rule can result in widespread oppression, human rights abuses, and a lack of accountability or transparency. The term "despotic" conveys a negative connotation, reflecting the harsh and authoritarian nature of the ruling power or system being described.

Example sentences containing despotic

1. The despotic ruler silenced all opposition and crushed any dissent.
2. Citizens lived under the despotic regime, fearing for their basic freedoms.
3. The country's despotic government imposed strict censorship on the media.
4. The despotic leader showed no mercy, ruling with an iron fist.
5. Under despotic rule, civil liberties were severely restricted.
6. The despotic regime suppressed the rights of minority groups.

History and etymology of despotic

The adjective 'despotic' has its etymological roots in Greek. It is derived from the Greek word 'despotes,' which means 'master' or 'lord.' In ancient Greece, a 'despotes' was a person who held absolute power or authority over others, often in a master-slave relationship. The term 'despotes' was formed from 'des,' meaning 'the lord's,' and 'potes,' meaning 'husband' or 'master.' Over time, as the concept of absolute power and tyranny became associated with rulers who exercised oppressive and arbitrary authority, the term 'despotic' emerged to describe systems or individuals characterized by the exercise of absolute power, often with a tyrannical or oppressive nature. Thus, the etymology of 'despotic' reflects its historical association with authoritarian rule and the idea of a master or lord who wields unchecked authority.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the adjective despotic:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of despotic

1. The despotic king demanded unquestioning loyalty from his subjects.
2. The despotic dictator amassed wealth and power at the expense of the people.
3. The despotic ruler manipulated elections to maintain his grip on power.
4. The despotic regime used surveillance to monitor and control its citizens.
5. The despotic leader's actions were condemned by the international community for their human rights violations.
6. The despotic ruler silenced dissent with an iron fist.
7. Under his despotic rule, the citizens lived in fear.
8. The despotic regime quashed any form of opposition.
9. The king's despotic decrees left the kingdom in turmoil.
10. The despotic leader crushed any hint of rebellion.
11. Citizens yearned for freedom from the despotic regime.
12. His despotic control over the company stifled innovation.
13. The despotic monarch imposed heavy taxes on the people.
14. The nation rose against the despotic government's oppression.
15. The dictator's despotic reign led to widespread suffering.
16. The despotic ruler's cruelty knew no bounds.
17. The people longed for an end to the despotic regime.
18. A revolt was brewing against the despotic monarchy.
19. The despotic emperor's whims determined the fate of many.
20. Dissent was met with the despotic leader's wrath.
21. The nation celebrated the downfall of the despotic regime.
22. The despotic regime's propaganda machine controlled minds.
23. The citizens lived in constant fear of the despotic ruler.
24. The despotic king's lavish lifestyle drained the treasury.
25. The despotic regime's oppression ignited a revolution.