draconian

UK: drəˈkəʊ.ni.ən | US: drəˈkoʊ.ni.ən

Definition

  1. adj. excessively harsh or severe (especially of laws or rules)

Structure
Draco <name of an ancient Athenian lawmaker>ian <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "draconian" derives from Draco, the name of a 7th-century BCE Athenian legislator known for establishing a legal code with extremely severe punishments (e.g., death for minor offenses). The suffix -ian forms an adjective meaning "relating to." Over time, the term evolved to describe any excessively rigid or cruel measure, detached from its original historical context but retaining the essence of harshness.

Examples

  1. The government imposed draconian restrictions to curb the protest.

  2. Critics argue that the new tax laws are draconian and unfair.

  3. The school’s draconian dress code banned even modest accessories.

  4. Under the dictator’s draconian regime, free speech was suppressed.

  5. The judge’s draconian sentence shocked the public.