The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word TYRANTS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
T
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "dictators" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case dictators = tyrants.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does TYRANTS mean?
TYRANTS noun- A usurper; one who gains power and rules extralegally, distinguished from kings elevated by election or succession.
- Any monarch or governor.
- A despot; a ruler who governs unjustly, cruelly, or harshly.
- (by extension) Any person who abuses the power of position or office to treat others unjustly, cruelly, or harshly.
- (by extension) A villain; a person or thing who uses strength or violence to treat others unjustly, cruelly, or harshly.
- The tyrant bird, members of the family Tyrannidae, which often fight or drive off other birds which approach their nests.
- To act like a tyrant; to be tyrannical.
- To tyrannize.