Meaning & Definition of word "Oppressor"

Oppressor

/əˈprɛsər/

1. A person or group that exercises harsh or unjust power over others.
- Example: The regime was an oppressor of freedom, stifling any dissent among the populace.
2. One that imposes burdens on others, especially through unjust or cruel treatment.
- Example: Throughout history, many oppressors have faced resistance from those they sought to control.
3. A person who maintains oppressive conditions, often to benefit themselves at the expense of others.
- Example: In the story, the wealthy landowner was portrayed as the oppressor, taking advantage of the poor farmers.
4. An individual or entity that enforces power unfairly or abuses authority.
- Example: Activists came together to fight against the oppressor who violated their rights.

Derived from Middle English, from Latin 'opprimere', meaning 'to crush or press down.'

oppress the masses:

To exercise harsh control over large groups of people.

rising against the oppressor:

To rebel or resist those in power who are unjust.

oppression:

The state of being subject to unjust treatment or control.

persecution:

Hostile and unfair treatment, especially due to race, political, or religious beliefs.

Meaning: The man

Example Sentence: They're always fighting against the man when it comes to social justice.

Meaning: The establishment

Example Sentence: Artists often rebel against the establishment because they feel oppressed.