diktat

Meanings

1. A dogmatic decree or command, especially issued by one who rules without popular consent.
2. A harsh penalty or settlement imposed upon a defeated party by the victor.

Etymology

Borrowed from German Diktat, from Latin dictātum (“that which has been dictated”), from the perfect passive participle of dictō (“dictate”). Doublet of dictate. Originally used with reference to Germany's penalties as dictated by the Treaty of Versailles.