Pronunciation: [ˈabsəlˌuːtɪst] (IPA) 
The word "absolutist" is spelled with a silent "e" at the end. It is pronounced /ˌæb.səˈluː.tɪst/ and the stress is on the second syllable. The "a" is pronounced like in the word "cat", and the "u" is pronounced like in the word "rule". The "t" at the end is pronounced, and not silent like the "e". An absolutist is someone who believes in absolute power or authority, without allowing for any exceptions or compromises.
An absolutist is a person who adheres to the principles or beliefs of absolutism. Absolutism, in its general sense, refers to the philosophy or political theory that advocates for absolute power or unrestricted authority in a ruler or governing body. An absolutist firmly supports the idea of centralized power and the concentration of authority in the hands of a single individual or a governing entity, disregarding checks and balances, limitations, or the division of powers.
In the context of political ideologies, an absolutist believes in the autocracy or dictatorship as the ideal form of government. They believe that a single ruler possesses absolute power and should have complete control over legislative, executive, and judicial matters, without interference or opposition from any other authority. This notion implies that the ruler's power is not subject to constitutional or legal restrictions.
In a broader sense, an absolutist may extend beyond politics and apply to individuals who adopt an uncompromising or inflexible approach in their beliefs or actions. They may hold rigid opinions, rejecting alternative viewpoints or refusing to consider alternative courses of action. The absolutist mindset tends to lack openness or willingness to compromise, often leading to an intense adherence to a particular ideology, be it political, religious, or moral.
Overall, an absolutist is defined by their staunch commitment to centralized power, disregard for limitations, and unwillingness to entertain opposing perspectives or adapt their beliefs.
The word "absolutist" has its origins in the Latin term "absolutus", which is the past participle of the verb "absolvere", meaning "to free from". In the 16th century, the word "absolutism" came into use to refer to political systems where power was centralized in a single authority figure, such as an absolute monarch. The term "absolutist" emerged as an adjective form of "absolutism" to describe individuals who supported or advocated for such a system.
