Dēs'pot-izm, n.
n. [Fr. despotisme, Sp. & It. despotismo.]
- The power, spirit, or principles of a despot; absolute control over others; tyranny.
- A government which is directed by a despot; absolutism; autocracy.
Despotism is the only form of government which may with safety to itself neglect the education of its infant poor. Bp. Horsley.