VocabDictionary

dictatorial

/ˌdɪk.təˈtɔːr.i.əl/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Characteristic of or typical of a ruler with absolute power; domineering, overbearing, or expecting unquestioning obedience.

Example Sentences:
  • The manager's dictatorial style of leadership caused half of the department to resign within a year.
  • She found his dictatorial tone during the group project to be incredibly frustrating and counterproductive.
Share & Learn With Friends

Share “dictatorial” with study groups, classmates, or on your social channels.

English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

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

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'dictator', meaning 'one who dictates' or 'a magistrate with absolute authority', which itself comes from the verb 'dictare' (to say often, to dictate). The suffix '-ial' was added in the 17th century to form the adjective describing the characteristic behavior of such a ruler.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'dictator' who is 'all' about himself; he is dictatorial.

Frequently Asked Questions About “dictatorial

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

In English, dictatorial (adjective) is defined as: “Characteristic of or typical of a ruler with absolute power; domineering, overbearing, or expecting unquestioning obedience.”.

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

The manager's dictatorial style of leadership caused half of the department to resign within a year.

3. What are English synonyms of “dictatorial”?

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

Derived from the Latin 'dictator', meaning 'one who dictates' or 'a magistrate with absolute authority', which itself comes from the verb 'dictare' (to say often, to dictate). The suffix '-ial' was added in the 17th century to form the adjective describing the characteristic behavior of such a ruler.