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Kleptocracy: meaning, pronunciation and examples
Kleptocracy noun. Government by leaders who use their power to steal the country's wealth for themselves.
How to say it
klep-TOK-ruh-see/klɛpˈtɒkrəsi/
4 syllables, stressed on the second (TOK). Forms: kleptocrat, kleptocrats, kleptocratic.
Kleptocracy in a sentence
Investigators followed the money from the kleptocracy's treasury to a row of seaside villas.
Aid agencies were wary of funding projects in a kleptocracy where half of every grant vanished.
Similar and opposite
Similar:
- corrupt government
- plutocracy
Where kleptocracy comes from
From Greek kleptēs, a thief, and kratos, power.
Test yourself
Which word fills the gap?
Aid agencies were wary of funding projects in a _____ where half of every grant vanished.
- kleptocracy
- autocracy
- technocrat
Show the answer
kleptocracy: Aid agencies were wary of funding projects in a kleptocracy where half of every grant vanished.