What does dictatorial mean?
Dictatorial is an adjective describing the exercise of absolute, unaccountable power, whether by an actual dictator or, figuratively, by anyone who bosses others around. Its primary sense applies to governments and rulers: a dictatorial regime suppresses opposition, rules by decree, and answers to no electorate. Its secondary sense extends to everyday life, characterizing a person whose manner is imperious and domineering — a dictatorial teacher or boss who expects orders to be obeyed without question. The word is invariably negative, carrying connotations of oppression, arbitrariness, and contempt for consent. It derives ultimately from the Latin dictare, 'to prescribe or enjoin,' through dictator, the title of the Roman magistrate granted temporary emergency powers. English speakers use dictatorial in both formal political commentary — describing authoritarian states — and informal complaint about overbearing personalities, making it a precise and forceful word for unchecked command.
Relating to or characteristic of a ruler with total power who governs without democratic accountability.
"Opposition parties were banned under the new dictatorial government."
Almost always used pejoratively.
Overbearing and domineering; inclined to issue commands and expect unquestioning compliance.
"He was criticized for his dictatorial management style."
The word 'dictator' began as an ancient Roman office — a magistrate granted emergency power for six months — long before it became the insult we know today.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of dictatorial
Dictatorial derives from the Latin dictator, the title of an extraordinary Roman magistrate granted supreme power for a limited term during emergencies, itself from dictare, a frequentative of dicere, meaning 'to say' or 'to prescribe.' The adjective entered English around the early seventeenth century, first in the literal sense relating to a dictator, and later broadened to describe any overbearing, commanding manner. It shares its Latin root with words such as dictate, dictation, and predict, all built on the stem dic- meaning to say or declare.
Related word forms
How dictatorial is actually used
The word is almost always pejorative. When applied to governments it carries strong political connotations; when applied to individuals (e.g., 'a dictatorial manager'), it is a pointed criticism of someone's manner rather than a description of actual political power.
Easily confused with dictatorial
Authoritarian describes strict enforcement of authority and obedience to it, while dictatorial more strongly implies the arbitrary, personal exercise of absolute power.