Des"po*tat (?), n. [Cf. F. despotat.] The station or government of a despot; also, the domain of a despot. Freeman.
{ Des*pot"ic (?), Des*pot"ic*al (?), } a. [Gr. &?;: cf. F. despotique.] Having the character of, or pertaining to, a despot; absolute in power; possessing and abusing unlimited power; evincing despotism; tyrannical; arbitrary. -- Des*pot"ic*al*ly, adv. -- Des*pot"ic*al*ness, n.
Des"po*tism (?), n. [Cf. F. despotisme.] 1. The power, spirit, or principles of a despot; absolute control over others; tyrannical sway; tyranny. "The despotism of vice." Byron.
2. A government which is directed by a despot; a despotic monarchy; absolutism; autocracy.
Despotism . . . is the only form of government which may with safety to itself neglect the education of its infant poor.
Bp. Horsley.