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Satraps Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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satraps

[ˈseɪtræps ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

ancient rulers

Satraps were the governors of the provinces in the ancient Persian Empire. They acted as representatives of the king and were responsible for collecting taxes, maintaining order, and enforcing laws in their respective regions.

Synonyms

administrator, governor, ruler.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
governor

Used for someone who leads a state or region, often used in political contexts.

  • The governor signed new legislation into law.
  • The governor of California addressed the issue in a press conference.
ruler

Used for someone who has control over a country or territory, often with absolute power. Can have negative connotations if the control is tyrannical.

  • The ruler of the kingdom was known for his strict laws.
  • The ancient ruler expanded his territory through conquest.
administrator

Used for someone who manages and organizes day-to-day operations, often in a business or school setting.

  • The school administrator handled the scheduling of classes.
  • The company's administrator oversees all office activities.

Examples of usage

  • The satraps reported directly to the king.
  • The satraps wielded significant power in their provinces.
Context #2 | Noun

modern context

In modern usage, the term 'satrap' is sometimes used metaphorically to describe a subordinate who is excessively obedient or tyrannical in carrying out orders.

Synonyms

henchman, lackey, subordinate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
satraps

Use this term when referring to historical or political authorities, specifically during ancient times, such as the governors of provinces in the Persian Empire. It can also metaphorically describe someone with significant regional power.

  • The king appointed several satraps to govern the distant provinces of his empire.
  • The CEO's regional managers operate almost like modern-day satraps.
subordinate

Appropriate for professional or hierarchical settings when referring to someone who is lower in rank or position. It is a neutral term without negative or positive connotations.

  • The manager discussed the project's details with her subordinates.
  • In a military unit, subordinates are expected to follow the orders of their superiors.
henchman

This word is more commonly used in contexts depicting criminals, villains, or powerful figures who have loyal and often ruthless followers. It carries a negative connotation.

  • The mob boss was always accompanied by his trusted henchman.
  • The villain's henchman carried out his evil plans without question.
lackey

Typically used to describe someone who excessively obeys or serves another person, often with little self-respect. This term has a very negative connotation, implying servility.

  • He's nothing but a lackey, doing whatever his boss commands.
  • The nobleman treated his assistants like lackeys, demanding they serve him at all times.

Examples of usage

  • The supervisor was accused of being a corporate satrap, blindly following the directives of upper management.
  • He was tired of being treated like a mere satrap, always following someone else's orders.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'satraps'

The term 'satrap' originated from the Old Persian word 'khshathrapa', meaning 'protector of the province'. In the ancient Persian Empire, the satraps played a crucial role in maintaining the stability and administration of the vast empire. Over time, the term has evolved to also encompass a metaphorical meaning in modern contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,260 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.