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autarchy

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ɔˈtɑrki/

KK: /ɔˈtɑrki/

noun
Definition

A system of government where one person or group has complete control and power over a country or organization.


Example

The nation was under autarchy, with all decisions made by a single ruler.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of the term autarchy?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think it means a country with absolute power, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! It's interesting how some nations operate under that kind of rule.
Sloth B
For sure, it really makes you think about the balance of power in governments.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
autocracy
sovereignty
dominion
Antonyms
anarchy
subordination
dependency
Root Explanation

Autarchy is formed from "auto-" (meaning self) and "archia" (from Greek "archia", meaning rule or government). The word describes a system of government where one rules oneself or is self-governing.

Memory Tip

Think of 'self' ('auto-') ruling or governing ('archia') — that's what autarchy means.

Visually Confused Words
antarchy
plutarchy
pantarchy
starchy
duarchy
anarchy
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