1. rulers who have absolute power and use it in a cruel or oppressive way
Usage: plural of despot

Examples

• The despots ruled their kingdoms with iron fists.
• History is filled with despots who oppressed their people.
• The revolution overthrew the despots who had controlled the country for decades.
• These despots showed no mercy to those who opposed them.
• The citizens lived in fear under the rule of such cruel despots.
• Many despots throughout history have fallen when their people rose up against them.