Definition

Noun: 1. A system of government in which one person holds absolute power: Monocracy is a form of government where a single individual, such as a dictator or absolute monarch, possesses unlimited and unrestrained political authority. This power is typically not restricted by a constitution, laws, or meaningful political opposition.

Usage

The term "monocracy" is a formal and academic word used primarily in political science and historical contexts to describe a specific type of autocratic rule. It emphasizes the concentration of all governing power in one person's hands. - It functions as a countable noun (e.g., a monocracy, several historical monocracies). - It is often used to analyze, classify, or criticize systems of government.

Examples

• The historian argued that the ancient regime was not a true monarchy but a brutal monocracy.
• Political theorists warn that the erosion of democratic institutions can lead to monocracy.
• The country transitioned from a monocracy to a multi-party democracy after a prolonged civil war.

Advanced Usage

• "The dangers of monocracy": A common phrase in political discourse highlighting the risks associated with one-person rule, such as the lack of checks and balances.
  • The philosopher's writings extensively detail the dangers of monocracy.

Variants and Related Words

• Autocracy (n.): A very close synonym, meaning government by one person with absolute power.
• Dictatorship (n.): A common synonym, often implying the ruler seized power forcibly and rules oppressively.
• Absolutism (n.): A related concept, especially in historical contexts, referring to a monarch's claim to complete, unrestrained power.
• Tyranny (n.): Emphasizes the oppressive and unjust use of absolute power.
• Monocrat (n.): The ruler in a monocracy.

Synonyms

• Autocracy
• Dictatorship
• Despotism
• Tyranny
• One-man rule
• Absolute monarchy (in its most extreme form)

Antonyms

• Democracy
• Republic
• Polyarchy
• Pluralism

Noun

1. a form of government in which the ruler is an absolute dictator (not restricted by a constitution or laws or opposition etc.)