despotism Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun dominance through threat of punishment and violence
tyranny; absolutism.
noun a form of government in which the ruler is an absolute dictator (not restricted by a constitution or laws or opposition etc.)
tyranny; absolutism; dictatorship; monocracy; Stalinism; shogunate; authoritarianism; one-man rule; Caesarism; totalitarianism.

Cf. F. despotisme.

The power, spirit, or principles of a despot; absolute control over others; tyrannical sway; tyranny. "The despotism of vice." Byron.
A government which is directed by a despot; a despotic monarchy; absolutism; autocracy.
Despotism . . . is the only form of government which may with safety to itself neglect the education of its infant poor. Bp. Horsley.