Despot (?), n. [F. despote, LL. despotus, fr. Gr. despoths master, lord, the second part of which is akin to posis husband, and L. potens. See Potent.] 1. A master; a lord; especially, an absolute or irresponsible ruler or sovereign.
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Irresponsible power in human hands so naturally leads to it, that cruelty has become associated with despot and tyrant. C. J. Smith.
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2. One who rules regardless of a constitution or laws; a tyrant.
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