Synonyms of dictator

dictator

noun

ˈdik-ˌtā-tər 

as in tyrant

a person who uses power or authority in a cruel, unjust, or harmful way

the dictator had a fierce stranglehold on the country, keeping its people in poverty and ignorance

Synonyms & Similar Words

• tyrant
• despot
• ruler
• pharaoh
• warlord
• strongman
• oppressor
• man on horseback
• führer
• overlord
• caesar
• tycoon
• leader
• king
• autocrat
• authoritarian
• prince
• monarch
• magnate
• totalitarian
• boss
• caudillo
• potentate
• tyrannizer
• baron
• dominator
• sovereign
• czar
• chief
• master
• queen
• lord
• Big Brother
• paramount
• captain
• autarch
• mogul
• monocrat
• kingpin
• taskmaster
• martinet
• enforcer
• disciplinarian
• discipliner

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of dictator

The deposed dictator smiled, greeted court personnel, and shook hands with lawyers after entering the courtroom, according to the Associated Press. — Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 22 July 2026

The dictator unleashed World War II, in which at least 60 million people died. — Philipp Jenne, Los Angeles Times, 22 July 2026

Chancellor Adolf Hitler became dictator of Germany after President Paul von Hindenburg died. — USA Today, 21 July 2026

López Maya, the historian, noted that after the dictator Juan Vicente Gómez died, in the thirties, prison gates were opened. — Stephania Taladrid, New Yorker, 20 July 2026