(n) :
		
		originally, a 
magistrate without colleague in republican ancient Rome, who held full executive authority for a term grated by the 
senate (legislature), typically to conduct a war; a totalitarian leader of a 
dictatorship.  They 
wield absolute authority, usually to the detriment of the 
people (
evil dictator), however, there are cases (such as 
benevolent dictators) where they are beneficial