Entry Word: absolute

Function: adjective

Meaning: 1 exercising power or authority without interference by others <the absolute monarchy of Russia ended when Czar Nicholas II promised to share power with a legislative body>

Synonyms autocratic, despotic, dictatorial, tyrannical (also tyrannic), tyrannous

Related Words authoritarian, totalitarian; arbitrary, high-handed, magisterial; domineering, imperious, masterful; all-powerful, almighty, omnipotent; autonomous, self-governing, sovereign; unconditional, unlimited

Near Antonyms circumscribed, restrained, restricted; constitutional, lawful

Antonyms limited

2 having no exceptions or restrictions <ironing is an absolute bore> <I want the absolute truth>

Synonyms all-out, arrant, categorical (also categoric), complete, consummate, dead, downright, flat, out-and-out, outright, perfect, profound, pure, regular, sheer, simple, stark, thorough, thoroughgoing, total, unadulterated, unalloyed, unconditional, unequivocal, unmitigated, unqualified, utter

Related Words authentic, classic, genuine, real, veritable; constant, endless, eternal, perpetual, undying, unremitting; extreme, rank, unrestricted; confirmed, habitual, hopeless, inveterate; deadly, extraordinary, frightful, horrible, huge, main, superlative, supreme, surpassing, terrible, terrific

Near Antonyms doubtful, dubious, equivocal, qualified, questionable, restricted, uncertain

3 being entirely without fault or flaw <a room decorated with absolute taste> — see perfect 1
4 free from added matter <absolute alcohol> — see pure 1
5 serving to put an end to all debate or questioning <absolute proof of her innocence> — see conclusive 1