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Meaning of despot
A despot is a ruler with absolute power and control, often using it in a cruel or oppressive manner.
Etymology of despot
The word "despot" originates from the Greek word "despótēs," meaning master or lord, which is derived from "déspos," the genitive form of "déspoin," also meaning master
Historically, the term was used to describe the absolute rulers of the Byzantine Empire and other Eastern European monarchies
Over time, the connotation of the word shifted to emphasize the negative aspects of absolute power, such as cruelty and oppression
Synonyms
tyrant
dictator
authoritarian
oppressor
ruler
monarch
autocrat
sovereign
leader
commander
governor
administrator
bureaucrat
official
magistrate
judge
master
lord
king
emperor
potentate
overlord
suzerain
dominator
conqueror
subjugator
enslaver
exploiter
persecutor
tormentor
brutalizer
abuser
harasser
intimidator
Definitions
- A ruler with absolute power, typically one who exercises it in a cruel or oppressive way
- A person who has complete control over something or someone, often using it selfishly or unkindly
Usage Examples
- The despot ruled the country with an iron fist, suppressing any opposition or dissent
- The company's CEO was seen as a despot by his employees, who felt he was dictatorial and uncaring
- The tyrannical despot was eventually overthrown in a popular uprising, bringing an end to his regime of terror
Antonyms
democrat
liberal
humanitarian
philanthropist
altruist
benefactor
humanist
reformer
advocate
champion
supporter
defender
protector
guardian
conservator
liberator
emancipator
equalizer
pacifist
peacemaker
mediator
arbitrator
negotiator