VocabDictionary

autocracy

/ɔːˈtɒk.rə.si/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A system of government by one person with absolute power.

Example Sentences:
  • The nation transitioned from a fragile democracy into a harsh autocracy over the course of a decade.
  • Citizens in the autocracy had no legal means to challenge the supreme leader's decrees.
2.noun

A state or country that is governed by a single person with unlimited authority.

Example Sentences:
  • Historical autocracies often collapsed due to internal succession crises and economic mismanagement.
  • Foreign policy analysts debated how best to engage with the emerging regional autocracy.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “autocracy”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'autos' (meaning 'self') and 'kratos' (meaning 'power' or 'rule'). It entered English in the late 17th century, initially referring to absolute sovereignty or power residing in a single person, drawing from historical models like the absolute rule of the Russian Tsars (autocrats).

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'auto' (self, like an automobile driven by one person) plus 'cracy' (government or rule) to remember 'rule by oneself'.

Frequently Asked Questions About “autocracy

1. What is the meaning of “autocracy” in English?

In English, autocracy (noun) is defined as: “A system of government by one person with absolute power.”.

2. How do you use “autocracy” in a sentence?

The nation transitioned from a fragile democracy into a harsh autocracy over the course of a decade.

3. What are English synonyms of “autocracy”?

Common synonyms include:dictatorship,tyranny,despotism,absolutism

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “autocracy”?

Derived from the Greek words 'autos' (meaning 'self') and 'kratos' (meaning 'power' or 'rule'). It entered English in the late 17th century, initially referring to absolute sovereignty or power residing in a single person, drawing from historical models like the absolute rule of the Russian Tsars (autocrats).