oppressor
UK: əˈpresə | US: əˈpresər
n. a person or group that exercises authority or power in a cruel or unjust manner
n. one who systematically suppresses or persecutes others
The word "oppressor" originates from Latin oppressus, the past participle of opprimere ("to press against, crush"). It combines op- (a variant of ob-, meaning "against") and premere ("to press"). The suffix -or denotes an agent, forming a noun for someone who performs the action. Historically, the term reflects the imagery of physical crushing, later extended to metaphorical suppression of people or rights.
The dictator was remembered as a ruthless oppressor of free speech.
Throughout history, many rebellions have risen to overthrow their oppressors.
The novel portrays the wealthy landlord as an oppressor of the peasant class.
Systemic injustice often stems from policies created by oppressors in power.
She dedicated her life to fighting against political oppressors.