despotic
/disˈpɒt.ɪk/
Group 24Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Of or typical of a despot; tyrannical GRE
Example in Context
The despotic ruler maintained control through a pervasive network of informers that made citizens afraid to speak freely.
Synonyms
tyrannicaldictatorialoppressive
Etymology
Relating to a master who rules with absolute power.
- despota (Greek) — master
Memory Aid
🐜Sounds like “this spot tick”
When a DESPOTIC ruler shows up, everyone feels a TICK in THIS SPOT out of fear!
Visual Association
👑A tyrant sitting on a golden throne, glaring down at fearful subjects in a darkened hall.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “despotic” mean on the GRE?
despotic (adjective) means “Of or typical of a despot; tyrannical”. The despotic ruler maintained control through a pervasive network of informers that made citizens afraid to speak freely.
How to remember “despotic” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “despotic” sounds like “this spot tick”. When a DESPOTIC ruler shows up, everyone feels a TICK in THIS SPOT out of fear!
What are synonyms for “despotic”?
Common synonyms: tyrannical, dictatorial, oppressive.