tyranny

noun
UK: /ˈtɪrəni/
US: /ˈtɪrəni/

  1. Cruel and unfair treatment by people with power over others.

    1. The people rebelled against the tyranny of the king.
    2. Citizens fought against the tyranny because they want more freedom and rights.

  2. A government in which all power is in the hands of a single ruler.

    1. The country suffered under years of tyranny.
    2. Historically, the tyranny of emperors often led to social instability and revolts.

  3. The oppressive use of power; despotic abuse of authority.

    1. He spoke out against the tyranny of the system.
    2. The small business owner fought against the tyranny of corporate regulations that threatened to shut them down.

Synonyms

oppression despotism dictatorship autocracy

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "tyranny" in English means: Cruel and unfair treatment by people with power over others., A government in which all power is in the hands of a single ruler., The oppressive use of power; despotic abuse of authority..

The phonetic transcription of "tyranny" is /ˈtɪrəni/ in British English and /ˈtɪrəni/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "tyranny": oppression, despotism, dictatorship, autocracy.

Example usage of "tyranny": "The people rebelled against the tyranny of the king.". More examples on the page.