Caudillo - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
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.