Definition

A person who has complete power and rules without any limits, often in a harsh or oppressive way.

Example

The autarch made decisions without consulting anyone else, leading to widespread discontent among the people.

Conversation

Did you hear about that new movie about an autarch?

Yeah, it sounds pretty intense, like a real power struggle.

I wonder how they portray the autarch in the film.

I hope they show the complexity of such a ruler, not just the tyranny.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Autarch is derived from "auto-" (meaning self) and "archon" (from Greek "archon", meaning ruler or leader). The term refers to a self-ruling leader or sovereign, emphasizing independence in governance.

Memory Tip

Think of a leader who rules 'by themselves' ('auto-') — that's what an autarch is, a self-ruling leader.

Visually Confused Words