Main Entry:

dic·ta·to·ri·al

Pronunciation:

\ˌdik-tə-ˈtȯr-ē-əl\

Function:

adjective

Date:

1701

1 a: of, relating to, or befitting a dictator <dictatorial power> b: ruled by a dictator2: oppressive to or arrogantly overbearing toward others

— dic·ta·to·ri·al·ly \-ē-ə-lē\ adverb

— dic·ta·to·ri·al·ness noun

synonyms dictatorial, magisterial, dogmatic, doctrinaire, oracular mean imposing one's will or opinions on others. dictatorial stresses autocratic, high-handed methods and a domineering manner <exercised dictatorial control over the office>. magisterial stresses assumption or use of prerogatives appropriate to a magistrate or schoolmaster in forcing acceptance of one's opinions <the magisterial tone of his pronouncements>. dogmatic implies being unduly and offensively positive in laying down principles and expressing opinions <dogmatic about what is art and what is not>. doctrinaire implies a disposition to follow abstract theories in framing laws or policies affecting people <a doctrinaire approach to improving the economy>. oracular implies the manner of one who delivers opinions in cryptic phrases or with pompous dogmatism <a designer who is the oracular voice of fashion>.