1. describing or relating to a political system or social climate that involves the restriction of individual freedoms and the subjugation of individuals to a centralized, hierarchical authority. For example, an authoritarian group is one in which decisions rest solely with the leader.

2. describing an individual, especially but not limited to one in a position of authority, who uses or favors restrictive, autocratic methods when interacting with others. See authoritarian personality. —authoritarianism n.