Word of the Day
November 20, 2020
Dictatorial
Characteristic of an absolute ruler; tyrannical or overbearing; imposing one’s will on others without regard for their input or consent.
From Latin 'dictatorius', relating to a dictator, one who dictates or gives orders. Originally referred to a Roman magistrate appointed during emergencies with absolute authority, later taking on negative connotations of tyrannical rule.
Usage Examples
- The governor's dictatorial approach to pandemic restrictions ignored the concerns of small business owners.
- Divided government prevents any single party from taking a dictatorial approach to legislation.
- The founders designed checks and balances specifically to prevent dictatorial concentrations of power.
From the Show
Tom Petrie warned that winning both Georgia Senate seats would allow progressives to impose policy without negotiation, essentially governing in a dictatorial fashion. Kim Monson connected this to concerns about servant leadership giving way to power-hungry politicians on the November 20th broadcast.