autocracy
UK: ɔːˈtɒkrəsi | US: ɔːˈtɑːkrəsi
n. A system of government where one person holds absolute power.
n. A state or society governed by a single ruler with unlimited authority.
The word "autocracy" combines the Greek morpheme auto- (meaning "self") and -cracy (meaning "rule" or "power"). It reflects the concept of absolute self-rule, where authority is concentrated in a single individual. The term emerged in the early 19th century, influenced by political discourse critiquing centralized power structures. The logic is straightforward: auto- (self) + -cracy (rule) = "rule by oneself."
The country transitioned from democracy to autocracy after the coup.
Historical autocracy often led to oppression and lack of freedoms.
Critics argue that corporate autocracy stifles innovation.
The king’s autocracy was challenged by a growing rebellion.
Autocracy contrasts sharply with systems of shared governance.