noun
despot
DEHS-pot
Despot (noun) means a ruler who holds total power and often uses it cruelly or unfairly; a tyrant. Example: “The country suffered for decades under a brutal despot.”
noun
1
A ruler who holds total power and often uses it cruelly or unfairly; a tyrant.
"The country suffered for decades under a brutal despot."
"History remembers him as a paranoid despot who trusted no one."
How to use despot
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA ruler with unchecked power, usually used negatively for someone who abuses it.
Common pairings
a brutal despot
ruthless despot
act like a despot
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Word forms
- Plural
- despots
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The country suffered for decades under a brutal _____.
Etymology
From Ancient Greek despotes, "master" or "lord", via French and Medieval Latin.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “despot” mean?
The word “despot” means a ruler who holds total power and often uses it cruelly or unfairly; a tyrant. In plain terms, a ruler with unchecked power, usually used negatively for someone who abuses it.
How do you pronounce “despot”?
“Despot” is pronounced DEHS-pot (/ˈdɛs.pət/ in IPA).
How do you use “despot” in a sentence?
Here is “despot” used in a sentence: “The country suffered for decades under a brutal despot.”
What part of speech is “despot”?
“Despot” is a noun.
Where does the word “despot” come from?
The word “despot” comes from Ancient Greek. From Ancient Greek despotes, "master" or "lord", via French and Medieval Latin.
