autocrat
/'ɔ:kəkræt/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun 1. A ruler who holds absolute power: An autocrat is a person who governs with unlimited authority, typically without any constitutional or democratic constraints. 2. A person who behaves in a domineering manner: In a broader sense, an autocrat can refer to someone who insists on complete obedience from others in any setting, such as a family or workplace.
Usage
The word "autocrat" is used to describe a leader with supreme, uncontrolled power. It often carries a negative connotation, implying tyranny, oppression, or the absence of checks and balances. * As a political leader: The country was ruled by a ruthless autocrat for decades. * In a non-political context: The CEO ran the company like an autocrat, making all decisions alone.
Examples
Advanced Usage
- Autocratic (adj): Describing a system, style, or behavior characteristic of an autocrat.
- The manager's autocratic style led to low morale among the staff.
- Autocracy (n): A system of government by one person with absolute power.
- The nation transitioned from a democracy to an autocracy.
Variants and Related Words
- Autocracy (n): The system or form of government ruled by an autocrat.
- Autocratic (adj): Of or relating to an autocrat; domineering.
- Autocratically (adv): In an autocratic manner.
Synonyms
- Dictator: A ruler with total power over a country, typically one who has obtained control by force.
- Tyrant: A cruel and oppressive ruler.
- Despot: A ruler or other person who holds absolute power, typically one who exercises it in a cruel or oppressive way.
- Absolute monarch: A king or queen who holds all governmental power.
Idioms and Phrases
- To rule with an iron fist: This idiom describes a style of leadership similar to that of an autocrat—harsh, uncompromising, and authoritarian.
- The general ruled the occupied territory with an iron fist.
Noun
- a cruel and oppressive dictator