tyrant
UK: ˈtaɪ.rənt | US: ˈtaɪ.rənt
n. a cruel and oppressive ruler
n. a person who exercises power in a harsh, unjust, or controlling way
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The word "tyrant" originates from the Greek tyrannos (meaning "absolute ruler"), which entered Latin as tyrannus and later Old French as tyrant before being adopted into English. Initially, it described an absolute ruler without inherent negative connotations, but over time—especially through historical accounts of oppressive rulers—the term evolved to emphasize cruelty and abuse of power.
The tyrant ruled the country with an iron fist, suppressing all dissent.
In the story, the villagers rebelled against the tyrant who taxed them unfairly.
She described her boss as a tyrant for micromanaging every task.
Ancient philosophers often debated how to prevent a leader from becoming a tyrant.
The play portrays the downfall of a tyrant who ignored the people’s suffering.