ɔːˌθɒrɪˈtɛːrɪən əˌθɔrəˈtɛriən disˈpɒt.ɪk dɛsˈpɑt.ɪk tɪˈɹæ.nɪk tɪˈɹæ.nɪ.kəl characteristic of an absolute ruler or absolute rule; having absolute sovereignty an authoritarian regime autocratic government despotic rulers a dictatorial rule that lasted for the duration of the war a tyrannical government expecting unquestioning obedience the timid child of authoritarian parents insufferably overbearing behavior toward the waiter of or characteristic of a dictator dictatorial powers