adj
Uncommon
authoritarian
aw-thor-ih-TEH-uh-reern
Authoritarian (adj) means demanding strict obedience and control, at the expense of individual freedom. Example: “The country slid into an authoritarian regime after the coup.”
adj
1
Demanding strict obedience and control, at the expense of individual freedom.
"The country slid into an authoritarian regime after the coup."
noun
1
A person who demands total obedience or a leader who rules with strict control.
"Critics accused the new president of being an authoritarian."
How to use authoritarian
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishRuling — or behaving — with strict, top-down control and little tolerance for dissent.
Common pairings
authoritarian regime
authoritarian rule
authoritarian leader
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Word forms
- Plural
- authoritarians
- Comparative
- more authoritarian
- Superlative
- most authoritarian
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The country slid into an _____ regime after the coup.
Etymology
From authority plus the suffix -arian, first used around 1880.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for authoritarian
See all rhymes for authoritarian →Frequently asked questions
What does “authoritarian” mean?
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.
How do you pronounce “authoritarian”?
“Authoritarian” is pronounced aw-thor-ih-TEH-uh-reern (/əˌθɔɹ.əˈtɛɹ.i.ən/ in IPA).
How do you use “authoritarian” in a sentence?
Here is “authoritarian” used in a sentence: “The country slid into an authoritarian regime after the coup.”
What is the opposite of “authoritarian”?
The opposite of “authoritarian” — its antonyms — are democratic, liberal, servile, humble and modest.
What part of speech is “authoritarian”?
Depending on how it is used, “authoritarian” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “authoritarian” come from?
The word “authoritarian” dates back to around 1880. From authority plus the suffix -arian, first used around 1880.
Is “authoritarian” a common word?
“Authoritarian” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “authoritarian” have?
“Authoritarian” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: demanding strict obedience and control, at the expense of individual freedom.
What is the difference between authoritarian and authoritative?
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.
What is the difference between authoritarian and totalitarian?
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.
Is authoritarian always a negative description?
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.
