Autocratic Definition, Examples & Usage Guide

Meaning 1：all-powerful (autocratic)

autocratic 🔊

/ˌɔːtəˈkrætɪk/

adj.

Describing a person or government that has all the power, and everyone else must completely obey without any opposition.

Autocratic king on throne commanding bowing ministers in palace

all-powerful 🔊

➕

/ɔːl ˈpaʊərfəl/

adj.

Relating to a ruler or government that holds total power and expects unquestioning obedience from all others. It implies lack of democratic processes or shared decision-making.

📁 Category：Countries & Government 🔖 Level：advanced

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Greek 'autokratēs': 'autos' meaning self + 'kratos' meaning power/rule.

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'Auto-cratic' as a driver who never lets anyone else steer the car.

📖 Example

The autocratic king made all the decisions himself, from taxes to festivals, and his advisors were too afraid to suggest any changes. 🔊 The autocratic king made all the decisions himself, from taxes to festivals, and his advisors were too afraid to suggest any changes.

🔗 Collocations

autocratic ruler – A ruler who has absolute power and controls everything.

autocratic regime – A government system where one person or a small group holds all authority.

autocratic leadership style – A management approach where the leader makes decisions alone without input from others.

🔄 Synonyms

dictatorial (adj.) – Having unrestricted authority, like a dictator; often implies oppressive rule.

despotic (adj.) – Exercising power in a cruel or oppressive way, with no regard for others' rights.

tyrannical (adj.) – Using power unjustly and cruelly, often to control every aspect of people's lives.

🚫 Antonyms

democratic (adj.) – Characterized by participation, representation, and shared decision-making among citizens.

consensual (adj.) – Based on agreement and mutual consent, not imposed by a single authority.

liberal (adj.) – Favoring individual rights, freedom, and limited government interference.

🌱 Derivatives

autocrat (n.) – A person who rules with unlimited power.

autocracy (n.) – A system of government with one person holding absolute power.

autocratically (adv.) – In an autocratic manner; without consulting others.

📖 Cultural Story

Coined in English in the 17th century from Greek roots 'auto-' and '-crat'. Used to describe rulers like Louis XIV who exercised absolute power without constitutional limits. In modern usage it extends to any leader or manager who makes unilateral decisions without consultation.