|
Despot - Dictionary Definition and Overview |
|
Despot : (noun)
1: a cruel and oppressive dictator [syn: tyrant, autocrat]
Based on WordNet 2.0
|
|
Despot : \Des"pot\, n. [F. despote, LL. despotus, fr. Gr.
despo`ths master, lord, the second part of which is akin to
po`sis husband, and L. potens. See Potent.]
1. A master; a lord; especially, an absolute or irresponsible
ruler or sovereign.
Irresponsible power in human hands so naturally
leads to it, that cruelty has become associated with
despot and tyrant. --C. J. Smith.
2. One who rules regardless of a constitution or laws; a
tyrant.
Based on Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
|
|
DESPOT. This word, in its most simple and original acceptation, signifies
master and supreme lord; it is synonymous with monarch; but, taken in bad
part, as it is usually employed, it signifies a tyrant. In some states,
Despot : is the title given to the sovereign, as king is given in others.
Encyc. Lond.
Based on Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
|
|
|
|
|
