Kleptocracy

Meanings

1. Government by thieves; rule by corrupt officials
2. A state where rulers exploit resources for personal gain
3. Systematic corruption

Example Sentences

• "Anti-corruption activists argue that unchecked kleptocracy undermines democratic institutions."
• "The investigative journalist exposed the kleptocracy that had drained the state treasury."
• "International sanctions targeted the kleptocracy's offshore bank accounts."

Etymology

From Greek 'kleptes' (thief) + '-kratia' (rule, power). 'Kleptes' also gives us 'kleptomania' (compulsive stealing). The word was coined in the early 19th century to describe corrupt governance.

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