despotically
|des-pot-ic-al-ly|
C1
/dɛˈspɒtɪkli/
(despotic)
cruel power
Etymology
Etymology Information
'despotic' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'despotēs,' where 'despotēs' meant 'master' or 'lord.'
Historical Evolution
'despotēs' transformed into the Latin word 'despoticus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'despotic' through Old French 'despotique.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'master or lord,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'tyrannical or oppressive.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a manner that is tyrannical or oppressive.
The ruler governed despotically, ignoring the needs of the people.
Synonyms
tyrannicallyoppressively
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/04/16 20:31