tinpot

tinpot
   pretentiously assuming the trappings and manner of authority
   The usage arose because a tinker was loath to use expensive tin when repairing a pot. The substitute, prior to the availability of alumunium, was mild steel, which rusted and did not make a good repair:
    ... give away every scrap of Empire that remains to any tinpot potentate that asks for it. (Private Eye, July 1981)

How not to say what you mean: A dictionary of euphemisms. . 2014.

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  • tinpot — adj. Brit. cheap, inferior …   Useful english dictionary

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