Synonyms for

Dictator

Verb / dɪˈkteɪtɜ: / / ˈdɪkteɪtɜ: / Another word for dictator — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a ruler who has complete power and authority over a country, typically obtained by force.

Synonyms & similar words

potentate authoritarian tyrant autocrat despot authoritarian totalitarian oppressor boss leader controller ringleader chief commander director master monarch czar fuehrer fuhrer strongman

Synonyms by register

Formal

autocrat tyrant despot oppressor

Informal

strongman boss big shot

Literary

sovereign potentate

Antonyms

democrat leader president ruler governor statesman monarch

Common collocations

  • absolute dictator
  • military dictator
  • brutal dictator
  • power-hungry dictator
  • former dictator
  • the dictator's rule
  • overthrow the dictator

Word family

noun dictatorship
verb dictate
adjective dictatorial

Usage note

A dictator is a ruler with total power, often obtained and maintained by force. The term carries strong negative connotations of oppression and lack of freedom.

Example sentences

  1. The dictator made all the decisions without listening to anyone else.
  2. The people of the country were afraid of the dictator.
  3. The dictator controlled the media to make sure his message was the only one heard.
  4. The dictator's regime was known for its human rights abuses.
  5. The dictator's palace was grand and luxurious.

Quotes

  • The only way to deal with a dictator, is to topple him.
  • A dictator must fool all the people all the time and there's only one way to do that, he must also fool himself.
  • The best weapon against a dictator is laughter.

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