1. a ruler who has absolute power and uses it in a cruel or oppressive way
2. a person who behaves in an tyrannical way
Usage: informal

Examples

• The despot ruled the country with an iron fist for decades.
• Citizens lived in fear under the cruel despot’s regime.
• History books are filled with stories of despots who abused their power.
• The revolution finally overthrew the despot and established democracy.
• My boss is such a despot – he never listens to anyone’s ideas.
• She accused her father of being a household despot who controlled every decision.