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Caudillo - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

caudillo

/kɔˈdi.oʊ/ /kɔːˈdiː.ljəʊ/

Definition:

A military or political leader, especially an authoritarian one in Spanish-speaking countries.

Synonyms:

dictator, autocrat, strongman, despot

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

democrat, egalitarian

Common Collocations:

military caudillo, political caudillo, authoritarian caudillo

Derivatives:

caudillismo, caudillista

Usage Tips:

Use "caudillo" to describe a dominant leader, often with negative connotations of authoritarianism in Latin American contexts.

Common Phrases:

rise of the caudillo, era of the caudillo, rule of the caudillo

Etymology:

Derived from Spanish "caudillo," meaning "leader," ultimately from Latin "capitellum," diminutive of "caput" (head).

Examples:

  • 1. The caudillo ruled with absolute authority.
  • 2. Many Latin American countries experienced caudillos in the 19th century.
  • 3. The people feared the harsh policies of the caudillo.
  • 4. Historians debate whether the caudillo was a necessary evil or a tyrant.

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