Absolutism
Example: Absolutism shaped many European governments in the seventeenth century.
Definition
"Absolutism" is a political doctrine and practice where a single ruler holds supreme authority, unrestricted by laws or opposition. It often refers to monarchs who exercise total control over the government and its people, shaping governance without checks or balances.
Etymology
The word "absolutism" derives from the Latin 'absolutus,' meaning 'unrestricted' or 'free.' It entered English in the 17th century to describe a form of monarchy where the sovereign's power is absolute. Did you know? The term emphasizes the idea of complete and unquestioned authority.
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"Absolutism" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - History - (B2) - set 1", containing 210 commonly used words.
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