VocabDictionary

dictatorship

/dɪkˈteɪ.tər.ʃɪp/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A form of government in which absolute power is concentrated in a single leader or a small clique, typically without effective constitutional limitations or democratic accountability.

Example Sentences:
  • The country suffered under a brutal military dictatorship for over two decades.
  • Citizens took to the streets to protest against the oppressive dictatorship and demand free elections.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

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

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'dictator' (a magistrate with supreme authority in ancient Rome), combined with the Old English suffix '-scipe' (denoting state, condition, or office). Initially referring to the office of a Roman dictator, the modern political sense emerged in the 19th century to describe autocratic governance.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'dictator' who tells everyone what to do, and '-ship' as the boat or state they are steering alone.

Frequently Asked Questions About “dictatorship

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

In English, dictatorship (noun) is defined as: “A form of government in which absolute power is concentrated in a single leader or a small clique, typically without effective constitutional limitations or democratic accountability.”.

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

The country suffered under a brutal military dictatorship for over two decades.

3. What are English synonyms of “dictatorship”?

Common synonyms include:autocracy,tyranny,despotism,totalitarianism

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

Derived from the Latin 'dictator' (a magistrate with supreme authority in ancient Rome), combined with the Old English suffix '-scipe' (denoting state, condition, or office). Initially referring to the office of a Roman dictator, the modern political sense emerged in the 19th century to describe autocratic governance.