anarchy

Definitions

A state of disorder due to absence or nonrecognition of authority.

The absence of government and absolute freedom of the individual, regarded as a political ideal.

Examples

The sudden collapse of the government led to a state of total anarchy in the streets.

Without clear rules or leadership, the classroom quickly descended into anarchy.

The philosopher argued that the society would function better without the constraints of a state, eventually leading to a form of peaceful anarchy.

Synonyms

lawlessness chaos disorder turmoil anomie misrule insubordination

Antonyms

order government rule authority control stability organization