dictator
Dictator (noun) means a leader who rules a country with total power and does not allow any opposition. Example: “The dictator banned newspapers and punished anyone who spoke against him.”
noun
1
A leader who rules a country with total power and does not allow any opposition.
"The dictator banned newspapers and punished anyone who spoke against him."
"Many people lived in fear while the dictator stayed in power for decades."
"The novel tells the story of a small country ruled by a cruel dictator."
2
In ancient Rome, an official given complete control of the state for a fixed period, usually to lead in wartime.
"The Roman Senate appointed a dictator to lead the army for six months."
"After the war ended, the Roman dictator gave up his power as the law required."
"Historians say a dictator in early Rome was chosen only in times of crisis."
3
Someone in charge who controls others in a harsh and unfair way.
"Our old boss was a real dictator who never listened to anyone's ideas."
"Don't be such a dictator, and let the others choose the game for once!"
"The coach acted like a dictator, shouting orders and ignoring the team's opinions."
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Etymology
Comes from Latin dictātor ("a chief magistrate"), from dictō ("dictate, prescribe"), from dīcō ("say, speak"). By surface analysis, it is formed from dictate + -or, literally "one who dictates"; compare Old English tictator ("absolute ruler of the Roman Republic").
Synonyms
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Rhymes for dictator
See all rhymes for dictator →Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of dictator?
"dictator" (noun) means a leader who rules a country with total power and does not allow any opposition.
What is another word for dictator?
Other words for "dictator" include potentate, authoritarian.
What are the different meanings of dictator?
"dictator" has 3 main meanings: 1. A leader who rules a country with total power and does not allow any opposition; 2. In ancient Rome, an official given complete control of the state for a fixed period, usually to lead in wartime; 3. Someone in charge who controls others in a harsh and unfair way.
How do you use dictator in a sentence?
Example: "The dictator banned newspapers and punished anyone who spoke against him."
