1. people who believe in or support a system of government in which power rests with a single leader or small group, with little or no input from the public
Usage: plural form of authoritarian; often used in political discourse
2. people who favor strict obedience to authority and oppose individual freedom
Usage: can refer to individuals with authoritarian personality traits or beliefs

Examples

• Many authoritarians throughout history have used propaganda to control their populations.
• The study examined how authoritarians and democrats differ in their political values.
• Some psychologists argue that authoritarians tend to be more rigid in their thinking.
• The regime was led by a group of authoritarians who suppressed free speech.
• Authoritarians often prioritize order and security over personal freedoms.
• The political spectrum includes both authoritarians on the right and left.
• Critics warned that the new policies would empower authoritarians within the government.