1. A system of government characterized by strong central power, limited political freedoms, restricted civil liberties, and minimal public participation in decision-making
The country fell under an authoritarian government after the military coup.
O país caiu sob um governo autoritário após o golpe militar.
2. A regime in which power rests with an absolute ruler or small elite group that is not accountable to the general population
Citizens living under an authoritarian government have limited freedom of speech.
Os cidadãos que vivem sob um governo autoritário têm liberdade de expressão limitada.