Dictatorship

Definition

The noun "dictatorship" refers to (1) a form of government in which absolute authority is vested in a single ruler or a small clique; (2) the period during which a dictator rules; and (3) the office, authority, or tenure of a dictator.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /ˌdɪkˈteɪ.tər.ʃɪp/
• Respelling: dik-TAY-tər-ship

British English

• IPA: /ˌdɪkˈteɪ.tə.ʃɪp/
• Respelling: dik-TAY-tuh-ship

Etymology

From Latin dictator “one appointed to dictate,” from dictare “to say often, prescribe,” via French dictature. Entered English in the mid-17th century.

Derivatives

• Dictatorial (adjective)
• Dictatorially (adverb)
• Dictator (noun)

Synonyms

• Autocracy
• Despotism
• Tyranny
• Authoritarianism

Antonyms

• Democracy
• Republic
• Pluralism
• Freedom

Usage

"Dictatorship" appears in political science, history, and current affairs. Examples: "The country fell under military dictatorship," and "He lamented the rise of dictatorship worldwide."

Related Terms

• Autocrat: A ruler with absolute power.
• Despot: A tyrannical ruler.
• Oligarchy: Rule by a small group.
• Totalitarianism: Centralized control by the state over every aspect of life.
• Democratization: Transition to democracy.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A government by a dictator or small clique with absolute power: Power is concentrated in one authority without effective constitutional limitations.
  • Example: "Under the military dictatorship, political parties were banned."
• The period during which a dictator rules: The tenure of dictatorial control.
  • Example: "The nation suffered economic turmoil during the dictatorship of 1975–1980."
• The office or authority of a dictator: The role and powers invested in the dictator.
  • Example: "He assumed the dictatorship of the council to enforce reforms."