autocratic
What does "autocratic" mean?
Autocratic describes a system of government or a person who exercises absolute power, often disregarding the opinions or desires of others. Imagine a ruler sitting on a high throne who makes every decision unilaterally, expecting total obedience without seeking input or consensus from those affected. In professional or social contexts, this word carries a negative connotation of being dictatorial or overbearing. It is frequently used to describe management styles that stifle collaboration, or political regimes where the leader’s will is law. You might hear it paired with "leader," "regime," or "style."
"autocratic" in conversation
Office meeting
I feel like our new manager is a bit autocratic.
I feel like our new manager is a bit autocratic.
Tell me about it; she never lets us vote on project directions.
Tell me about it; she never lets us vote on project directions.
Used to describe a restrictive management style.
History class
How would you define the leader's approach in this era?
How would you define the leader's approach in this era?
It was clearly autocratic, as he abolished the parliament entirely.
It was clearly autocratic, as he abolished the parliament entirely.
Used in an academic context to describe political power.
"autocratic" in a sentence
The autocratic ruler issued a decree that changed the law overnight.
The autocratic ruler issued a decree that changed the law overnight.
She struggled to work under an autocratic boss who rejected all suggestions.
She struggled to work under an autocratic boss who rejected all suggestions.
His autocratic tendencies alienated his colleagues and eventually led to a total breakdown in team communication.
His autocratic tendencies alienated his colleagues and eventually led to a total breakdown in team communication.
