Meaning & Definition of word "Tyrant"
Tyrant
/ˈtaɪrənt/
noun:
- 1. A cruel and oppressive ruler.
- Example: The citizens rose up against the tyrant who had ruled their land with an iron fist.
- 2. A person who uses power unjustly or oppressively.
- Example: He was considered a tyrant in his own home, ruling over his family with fear.
- 3. A person exercising power or control in a harsh or arbitrary way.
- Example: 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 of tyrant
Meaning: Bossy leader
● Example Sentence: My manager is a real tyrant when it comes to deadlines.
Meaning: Control freak
● Example Sentence: She can be a tyrant in her relationships, always wanting things her way.