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Translate files Tyrant
/ˈtaɪrənt/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A cruel and oppressive ruler.
The citizens rose up against the tyrant who had ruled their land with an iron fist.
A person who uses power unjustly or oppressively.
He was considered a tyrant in his own home, ruling over his family with fear.
A person exercising power or control in a harsh or arbitrary way.
The boss acted like a tyrant, demanding unreasonable hours from his employees.
Etymology
Middle English, from Latin 'tyrannus', from Greek 'tyrannos'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
benevolent dictator
A ruler who wields absolute power but exercises it for the benefit of the people.
tyranny of the majority
When a majority uses its power to oppress a minority.
political tyrant
A leader who rules oppressively and without regard for the law or the rights of the people.
Related Words
oppression
The exercise of authority or power in a burdensome, cruel, or unjust manner.
despotism
The exercise of absolute power, especially in a cruel and oppressive way.
autocracy
A system of government by one person with absolute power.
Slang Meanings
Bossy leader
My manager is a real tyrant when it comes to deadlines.
Control freak
She can be a tyrant in her relationships, always wanting things her way.