tin-pot dictator

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. An autocratic ruler with little political credibility, typically having delusions of grandeur.

Pronunciation

/ˌtɪnpɒt dɪkˈteɪtə/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-tin-pot dictator.wav /ˌtɪnˌpɑt ˈdɪkˌteɪtəɹ/ [-ɾəɹ]

Word forms

tin-pot dictator tin-pot dictators tinpot dictator tin pot dictator

Etymology

From tin-pot (“of inferior quality, shoddy; insignificant or minor, especially in an amusing and petty manner”) + dictator, referring to the cheapness and poor quality of pots made from tin or tin plate.

Derived words

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