Oppression

/əˈprɛʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The cruel or unjust use of power or authority; prolonged cruel or unjust treatment or control.

The citizens rose up against the oppression of their authoritarian government.

A state of being subject to unjust treatment or control.

Many people live under oppression and struggle for basic human rights.

The mental pressure or discomfort caused by worry or sadness.

She felt a weight of oppression weighing on her heart as she faced her challenges.

Middle English from Old French 'oppression', from Latin 'oppressio', from 'opprimere' meaning 'to press down'.

under oppression

Living in a state of being controlled and treated unfairly.

oppression of the masses

Refers to the systemic control or suffering imposed on large groups of people.

persecution

Hostile and unfair treatment, especially because of race, religion, or political beliefs.

tyranny

Cruel and oppressive government or rule.

The act of keeping someone down.

His actions were nothing but a form of oppression.

Being weighed down by stress or authority.

I'm feeling real oppression from my job lately.