'autocracy' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'autokratia,' where 'auto-' meant 'self' and 'kratos' meant 'power' or 'rule.'

'autokratia' transformed into the Medieval Latin word 'autocratia,' and eventually became the modern English word 'autocracy.'

Initially, it meant 'self-rule or self-power,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a government with absolute power.'