Authoritarian
/ɔːˌθɔːrɪˈteəriən/
Definitions
Characterized by or favoring absolute obedience to authority, often at the expense of personal freedom.
/ɔːˌθɔːrɪˈteəriən/
Favoring or enforcing strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom.
His authoritarian leadership style stifled creativity.
💡 Simply: A system or person who demands strict obedience.
More Examples
The country is known for its authoritarian regime.
How It's Used
"Many criticized the government's authoritarian policies."
"The study examined authoritarian parenting styles."
From Latin *auctoritas* "authority", ultimately from *augere* "to increase, augment". The word developed to describe systems of government emphasizing absolute obedience to authority.
The term gained prominence in the 20th century with the rise of totalitarian regimes.
Memory tip
Think 'author' – someone in charge, and 'itarian' – relating to a system. An authoritarian system is one where the 'author' is in complete control.