How to Pronounce Despotism

To pronounce "despotism", say DESP-ot-ism — 3 syllables, IPA /ˈdɛspətɪzəm/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

despotism

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Accent

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3

Syllables

9

Letters

/ˈdɛspətɪzəm/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “despotism”

"despotism" has 3 syllables: desp-ot-ism. It rhymes with altruism and skepticism, if that helps it stick.

What does despotism mean?

noun

  1. Government by a singular authority, either a single person or tight-knit group, which rules with absolute power, especially in a cruel and oppressive way.

Synonyms

tyranny

Hear “despotism” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with despotism

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

altruismskepticismmechanismdynamismorganismschismmagnetismhedonismegotismmysticismpessimismauthoritarianism

Related words

dictatorshipauthoritarianismtotalitarianismtyrannymonocracycaesarismstalinismabsolutism

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "despotism"?▾

"Despotism" has 3 syllables: desp · ot · ism.

What is the IPA transcription of "despotism"?▾

The IPA transcription of "despotism" is /ˈdɛspətɪzəm/.

What does "despotism" mean?▾

Despotism: Government by a singular authority, either a single person or tight-knit group, which rules with absolute power, especially in a cruel and oppressive way.

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