DICTATOR

dictator. 1.Roman law. An absolute ruler appointed in an emergency for a term of six months

and subject to reappointment.

“In  special  emergencies,  particularly  in  times  of  grave  crisis, either  consul  might appoint a

dictator  who  exercised  supreme  authority,  but  not  beyond  six  months,  unless  reappointed.  This

was, in effect, a temporary reversion to  monarchy.” R.W. Lee, The Elements of Roman Law 14

(4th ed. 1956).

2. A person, esp. a ruler, with absolute authority. [Blacks Law 8th]