A government under the direct or representative rule of the people of its jurisdiction.
Rule by the people, especially as a form of government; either directly or through elected representatives (representative democracy).
Belief in political freedom and equality; the "spirit of democracy".
A state with a democratic system of government.
The office or jurisdiction of an absolute ruler.
A government in which a single ruler (a tyrant) has absolute power; this system of government.
Extreme severity or rigour.
Absolute power, or its use.
A system of government in which power is exercised on behalf of the ruler or ruling class, without regard to the wishes of the governed.