absolutism
nounUK /ˈæb.sə.luː.tɪz.m̩/ · US /ˈæb.səˌluˌtɪz.m̩/
Etymology First attested in 1753 (in the theological sense); attested in 1830 in the political sense. From absolute + -ism, based after French absolutisme.
2
Human sciences, Political science, Sciences, Social science, Social sciences, Sociology The principles or practice of absolute or arbitrary government; Synonym of despotism.
- The element of absolutism and prelacy was more controlling in the counsels of the rival corporation.1859, John Gorham Palfrey, chapter IV, in History of New England, volume I, page 217:
- As absolutism became more consolidated in Europe, and particularly in France, such nonabsolutist states tended to define themselves in opposition to their absolutist rivals: hence, those features of their government which differed from absolutism tended to be given special prominence.2019, John Gascoigne, Science and the State, page 54:
3
Human sciences, Philosophy, Sciences Belief in a metaphysical absolute; belief in Absolute.
4
Positiveness; the state of being absolute.
5
Rare The characteristic of being absolute in nature or scope; absoluteness.
- It was the absolutism of his ambition to be a perfect writer (and perhaps also the perfect son) that imperiled him.2003, Ruth R. Wisse, The Modern Jewish Canon: A Journey Through Language, →ISBN:
- Derived terms
- antiabsolutism, hyperabsolutism, nonabsolutism
- Related terms
- autocracy, dictatorship, strongman