— authoritarianism , n.
/euh thawr'i tair"ee euhn, euh thor'-/ , adj.
1. favoring complete obedience or subjection to authority as opposed to individual freedom: authoritarian principles; authoritarian attitudes.
2. of or pertaining to a governmental or political system, principle, or practice in which individual freedom is held as completely subordinate to the power or authority of the state, centered either in one person or a small group that is not constitutionally accountable to the people.
3. exercising complete or almost complete control over the will of another or of others: an authoritarian parent.
n.
4. a person who favors or acts according to authoritarian principles.
[ 1875-80; AUTHORIT(Y) + -ARIAN ]