tin-pot dictator UK /ˌtɪnpɒt dɪkˈteɪtə/US /ˌtɪnˌpɑt ˈdɪkˌteɪtəɹ/ noun1 •(disapproving) An autocratic ruler with little political credibility, typically having delusions of grandeur.Africa has no more tolerance for tinpot dictators. — 2022 formstin pot dictators · tin-pot dictators