adjective

theocratic

thee-uh-KRAT-ik

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Theocratic (adjective) means relating to or characteristic of a theocracy, a system of government ruled by religious authority. Example: “The country adopted a theocratic constitution after the revolution.”

adjective

Relating to or characteristic of a theocracy, a system of government ruled by religious authority.

"The country adopted a theocratic constitution after the revolution."

"Religious leaders held theocratic power over both law and worship."

"Historians study how theocratic rule shaped the region's early laws."

How to use theocratic

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTheocratic describes a government or system run by religious authority rather than secular rule.

When to use it

This is a formal word most often found in political, historical or religious writing.

Memory tip

Link the word to theocracy, the noun for a government of this kind, to remember its meaning.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

theocratic state theocratic rule theocratic government theocratic regime

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “theocratic” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The country adopted a _____ constitution after the revolution.

Etymology

The word is built from theocrat, meaning a ruler who governs in the name of religious authority, with the adjective ending -ic added. It can also be seen as combining theo-, relating to god, with -cratic, relating to rule or government.

Origin: English

Rhymes for theocratic

static somatic aquatic fanatic hepatic erratic lunatic aromatic ecstatic operatic dramatic climatic

See all rhymes for theocratic →

Frequently asked questions

What does theocratic mean?

It describes something connected to a theocracy, where religious leaders or laws hold governing power.

Is theocratic the same as religious?

Not quite; religious describes belief or practice generally, while theocratic specifically describes rule or government based on religious authority.

What is a theocratic government?

It is a government in which religious leaders or religious law hold direct political authority.

What is the meaning of theocratic?

"theocratic" (adjective) means relating to or characteristic of a theocracy, a system of government ruled by religious authority.