warlord
UK: ˈwɔː.lɔːd | US: ˈwɔːr.lɔːrd
n. a military leader, especially one who controls a region or territory by force
n. a ruler who governs through military power, often disregarding civilian authority
The word "warlord" is a compound formed from "war" (Old English werre, from Old North French werre, meaning "armed conflict") and "lord" (Old English hlāford, from hlāf "bread" + weard "keeper," originally meaning "bread guardian" or "provider"). The term emerged in the early 19th century to describe military leaders who ruled by force, often in fragmented or lawless regions. The combination reflects the fusion of military dominance ("war") with autocratic governance ("lord"), historically seen in feudal or post-collapse societies.
The warlord seized control of the province after the government collapsed.
Local warlords often exploit civilians for resources and labor.
During the civil war, the country was divided among rival warlords.
The warlord's brutal regime left the region in poverty.
Negotiations with the warlord failed, leading to prolonged conflict.