Autocrat
/ˈɔːtəˌkræt/noun
A ruler who has absolute power.
Did you know?The term 'autocrat' is deeply connected to the concept of divine right, where kings claimed their authority as ordained by the heavens.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
αὐτοκράτης (autokratēs)
“One who rules by oneself, a self-ruler.”
Late Latin
Latin
autocrates
“An absolute ruler.”
14th Century
Old French
autocrate
“A sovereign with unlimited power.”
Modern English
English
autocrat
“A leader exercising absolute power without democratic constraints.”