Autocrat is a term that refers to a ruler who has complete authority and power over a nation or state. It is a word that has been used throughout history to describe leaders who have an absolute control over the government, economy, and society of a country. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, meaning, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and examples of the word autocrat.
Definitions
An autocrat is a person who holds absolute power and authority over a state or nation. The word autocrat is derived from the Greek word “autokratia,” which means “self-rule” or “self-government.” Autocrats are often seen as dictators who rule with an iron fist and do not tolerate any opposition or dissent.
Origin
The origin of the word autocrat can be traced back to ancient Greece, where it was used to describe a ruler who had complete control over the government and the people. The term was first used in the 5th century BC by Herodotus, a Greek historian, to describe the Persian king Xerxes. Since then, the word has been used to describe many rulers throughout history, including kings, emperors, and dictators.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, an autocrat is “a ruler who has absolute power and authority over a state or nation.” Merriam-Webster defines an autocrat as “a person who has unlimited power and authority.” The Cambridge Dictionary describes an autocrat as “a ruler who has complete power and who often uses it unfairly and cruelly.”
Associations
The word autocrat is often associated with negative connotations, such as oppression, tyranny, and dictatorship. Autocrats are seen as leaders who do not value democracy or human rights and who rule with an iron fist. They are often associated with authoritarian regimes and are known for their lack of tolerance for opposition or dissent.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of autocrat include dictator, despot, tyrant, monarch, emperor, and ruler. These words are often used interchangeably with autocrat to describe a leader who has absolute power and authority over a state or nation.
Antonyms
Antonyms of autocrat include democrat, liberal, progressive, and reformer. These words are often used to describe leaders who value democracy, human rights, and freedom of speech and who seek to promote social and political change.
The same root words
The same root words as autocrat include autocracy, which refers to a system of government in which a single person has absolute power and authority, and autocratic, which describes a person who has an autocratic style of leadership.
Example Sentences
- The autocrat ruled the country with an iron fist, suppressing any opposition or dissent.
- The autocrat’s regime was marked by corruption, human rights abuses, and a lack of freedom of speech.
- The autocrat’s reign came to an end when the people rose up against him and demanded democracy.
- The autocrat’s policies were criticized by human rights organizations for their lack of respect for basic human rights.
- The autocrat’s power was challenged by a group of reformers who sought to bring about political and social change.