potentate Add to list Share. A potentate is a person so powerful that he or she doesn't have to follow the rules that govern everyone else. Potentate normally refers to a king or dictator, but you can call anyone with virtually unlimited power a potentate.

What does potentate mean?

potentate • \POH-tun-tayt\ • noun. : ruler, sovereign; broadly : one who wields great power or sway. Examples: His work as a high-level diplomat frequently brings him into contact with foreign potentates.

What does Oriental potentate mean?

n a variety of corundum resembling topaz in colour and used as a gemstone.