1. a form of government in which God or a deity is recognized as the supreme civil ruler, with religious leaders governing in the name of God
2. a country or state governed by religious leaders according to religious law

Examples

• Ancient Egypt was considered a theocracy with the pharaoh serving as both king and god.
• Iran is often cited as a modern example of a theocracy.
• The Puritans attempted to establish a theocracy in colonial Massachusetts.
• In a theocracy, religious law takes precedence over civil law.
• The Vatican City operates as a theocracy under the Pope’s authority.
• Many citizens opposed the movement toward theocracy in their country.