General alternatives:
* Clerical state: This emphasizes the role of religious leaders in governing.
* Religious government: This is a more straightforward description of the system.
* Theo-state: This combines "theo" (god) and "state," emphasizing the divine foundation of the government.
* Religious dictatorship: This highlights the absolute power held by religious authorities.
More specific alternatives:
* Papacy: This refers specifically to the government of the Catholic Church.
* Caliphate: This refers to a Muslim government led by a Caliph.
* Ayatollah-ocracy: This refers to a government ruled by an Ayatollah, as in Iran.
Other words that capture aspects of a theocracy:
* Religious authoritarianism: This highlights the oppressive nature of some theocracies.
* Clericalism: This refers to the dominance of religious figures in society.
* Religious fundamentalism: This refers to a strict adherence to religious doctrines.
The best word to use depends on the specific context and the aspect of theocracy you want to emphasize.