Dictionary entry

Cæsarism

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Cæ″sar‐ism (?), n. [Cf. F. Césarisme.] A system of government in which unrestricted power is exercised by a single person, to whom, as Cæsar or emperor, it has been committed by the popular will; imperialism; also, advocacy or support of such a system of government.

☞ This word came into prominence in the time of Napoleon III., as an expression of the claims and political views of that emperor, and of the politicians of his court.