ENGLISH
REFERENCE

autocratic

adj.
C1 Advanced US //ˌɔtəˈkɹætɪk// UK //ˌɔːtəʊkɹˈætɪk// au·to·crat·ic Vulgar

adj. describing a leader or a system where one person has all the power and makes all the decisions. It is often used to describe a leader who does not listen to other people's opinions.

adj. characterised by or relating to the exercise of absolute power by a single person or a small group. Often used to describe political systems or leadership styles that suppress dissent and centralise authority.


SIMPLE

The country was ruled by an autocratic leader for thirty years.

CONTEXTUAL

The new manager's autocratic style caused several experienced staff members to leave the company within a month.

COMPLEX

While some argue that autocratic governance can provide stability during times of crisis, critics maintain that such systems inherently stifle the democratic participation necessary for long-term social progress.

Synonyms
Origin

From autocrat + -ic, equivalent to auto- + -cratic.

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