Authoritarian

Quick meaning: Authoritarian is an adjective meaning Of, or relating to, or exhibiting strict obedience to an authority; favoring authoritarianism over civic and individual liberties.

Meaning

Of, or relating to, or exhibiting strict obedience to an authority; favoring authoritarianism over civic and individual liberties.

More Meanings

1. Demanding obedience to authority; marked by authoritarianism; dictatorial, tyrannical.
2. Tending to impose one's demands upon others as if one were an authority.
3. One who commands absolute obedience to his or her authority.
4. One who follows and is excessively obedient to authority.

Example Sentences

the authoritarian personality

The authoritarian government was demanding stricter laws for low-wage peasants.

It may be that precisely due to its weak nature, an authoritarian dictatorship needs rampant violence and lies to maintain its rule.

[…] (selling one’s personal activity under another’s direction and supervision encourages dependency and authoritarian relationships);[…]

Word Forms

• authoritarians

Synonyms for authoritarian

Depending on context, synonyms include bossy, arrogant, commanding, haughty, imperious, domineering.

Antonyms for authoritarian

Common opposites include democratic, liberal, servile, humble, modest.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include autocratic, dictator, dictatorial, despotic, tyrannical, domineering.

Related Dictionary Tools