noun

1. Archaic a title meaning “master,” applied to certain classes of rulers, as Byzantine emperors or bishops of the Greek church
2. an absolute ruler; king with unlimited powers; autocrat
3. anyone in charge who acts like a tyrant

Etymology: OFr despote < Gr despotēs, a master, lord < IE *dems-potis, lit., house master < *dem-, house (> timber, L domus) + *potis, master, husband (> L potis, potent, Goth -faths, husband)