plural dictatorships
1
: rule by a dictator : rule, control, or leadership by one person with total power
The country suffered for many years under his dictatorship.
2
: a government or country in which total power is held by a dictator or a small group
His enemies accused him of establishing a dictatorship.
a military dictatorship
Cite this Entry
“Dictatorship.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/dictatorship. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.
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