Definition

A type of government where the state has complete control over the people's lives and freedoms, often led by a single leader or party.

Example

Under totalitarianism, individual rights are often suppressed in favor of state control.

Conversation

I was reading about different political systems and came across totalitarianism.

That sounds interesting! What did you learn about it?

It’s pretty scary how much control the government can have in a totalitarianism regime.

Yeah, it makes you appreciate our freedoms even more.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Totalitarianism → It is formed from "totalis" (from Latin, meaning whole or complete) and "-anism" (a suffix used to form nouns indicating a system or doctrine). The word describes a political system that seeks to control all aspects of public and private life, thus representing a complete or total control.

Memory Tip

Think of 'total' meaning whole or complete, and remember that 'totalitarianism' refers to a system that seeks to control every part of life.

Visually Confused Words