Despotate vs. Despot

Despotatenoun

An area ruled by a despot (δεσπότης) in the late Byzantine Balkans (12th to 15th centuries).

Despotnoun

A ruler with absolute power; a tyrant.

Despotnoun

(historical) A title awarded to senior members of the imperial family in the late Byzantine Empire, and claimed by various independent or semi-autonomous rulers in the Balkans (12th to 15th centuries)

Despotnoun

A master; a lord; especially, an absolute or irresponsible ruler or sovereign.

Despotnoun

One who rules regardless of a constitution or laws; a tyrant.

Despotnoun

a cruel and oppressive dictator