noun

anarchy

AN-er-kee/ˈænərki/

A condition without an overarching governing authority.

The debate asks whether society can function under anarchy without rulers.

An abandoned intersection with overturned barriers and scattered litter, confused diverse pedestrians lacking direction.

Etymology

anGreekwithout

+archGreekleader

+yGreekstate or condition

The pieces describe the condition of being without a leader. From absence of government, the word broadened to absence of authority generally and the confusion or disorder associated with it.

In context

FRONTLINE PBS | Official15:54

there is chaos and Anarchy no functioning Central Authority and the United Nations headquartered here is apparently powerless to intervene

The Trial of Ratko Mladić (full documentary) | FRONTLINE

More examples

After the authorities withdrew, the district descended into anarchy.
The philosopher argues for anarchy based on voluntary cooperation.
With no central government, the territory remained in anarchy.

Forms

anarchy

anarchist noun — A supporter of society without coercive rulers.

Similar words

lawlessness: Emphasizes ignored rules rather than absence of government itself.
disorder: Does not necessarily imply any lack of governing authority.