Meaning & Definition of word "Oppressor"
Oppressor
/əˈprɛsər/
noun:
- 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.
Etymology
●Derived from Middle English, from Latin 'opprimere', meaning 'to crush or press down.'
Common Phrases and Expressions
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.
Related Words
oppression:
The state of being subject to unjust treatment or control.
persecution:
Hostile and unfair treatment, especially due to race, political, or religious beliefs.
Slang Meanings of oppressor
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.