A hidden or secret ruler; one who exercises power in a concealed or mysterious way.
From Greek 'kryptos' (hidden) + 'archos' (ruler/leader), literally 'hidden ruler,' a rare term from classical political theory.
Political philosophers used 'cryptarch' to describe situations where the real decision-maker stays invisible while a figurehead rules—it's an ancient concept we still see today in governments where true power operates behind the scenes.
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