authoritarian

The word “authoritarian” means demanding strict obedience and control, at the expense of individual freedom. In plain terms, ruling — or behaving — with strict, top-down control and little tolerance for dissent.

“Authoritarian” is pronounced aw-thor-ih-TEH-uh-reern (/əˌθɔɹ.əˈtɛɹ.i.ən/ in IPA).

Here is “authoritarian” used in a sentence: “The country slid into an authoritarian regime after the coup.”

The opposite of “authoritarian” — its antonyms — are democratic, liberal, servile, humble and modest.

Depending on how it is used, “authoritarian” can be an adjective and a noun.

The word “authoritarian” dates back to around 1880. From authority plus the suffix -arian, first used around 1880.

“Authoritarian” is an uncommon word in modern English.

“Authoritarian” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: demanding strict obedience and control, at the expense of individual freedom.

Authoritarian describes a person, government, or style that demands strict obedience and control at the expense of individual freedom, and it usually carries a negative meaning. Authoritative means commanding respect through expertise, confidence, or a natural sense of command, and is usually positive. The words look similar but describe very different qualities.

Authoritarian describes a system or leader that demands strict obedience and limits personal freedom, though some independent institutions or private life may still exist. Totalitarian goes further, seeking to control nearly every aspect of public and private life. All totalitarian systems are authoritarian, but not every authoritarian system is fully totalitarian.

In modern usage, authoritarian almost always carries a critical tone, describing excessive control or demands for obedience. It is rarely used as a compliment, even when describing strict or disciplined leadership. Calling someone authoritarian generally signals disapproval of how their power is being exercised.