Authoritarian describes a style of rule or behavior where one person or group demands strict obedience and allows little freedom. An authoritarian can also be a person who uses or supports this kind of power.
From “authority” plus the suffix “-arian,” meaning “related to” or “supporter of.” It grew in political vocabulary to describe governments and leaders who value control more than individual rights.
The word sits between “authority” and “dictatorship,” showing how normal power can slide into harsh control. It’s a reminder that how power is used matters as much as who has it.
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