Tyrant: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a ruler who uses power in a cruel or arbitrary way. It often conveys a strong negative connotation.

• The people revolted against the tyrant who had ruled them with an iron fist.
• History is filled with stories of tyrants who ruled without regard for the well-being of their subjects.

Indicates a ruler with absolute power who exercises it in a oppressive or brutal manner. It generally has a very negative connotation.

• The despot's harsh laws left the people living in constant fear.
• Many despots throughout history have been overthrown by those they oppressed.

Used for a ruler who holds total control over a country, often coming to power by force. This term typically has a negative connotation.

• The dictator suppressed all political opposition and controlled the media tightly.
• Living under a dictator, the citizens had no say in how they were governed.

Refers to a ruler with absolute power. This word can be neutral or slightly negative, depending on the context.

• The nation had been governed by an autocrat for decades, with no elections or input from the citizens.
• He was considered an autocrat in his business dealings, making decisions without consulting anyone.

Describes someone, not necessarily a ruler, who harms others by exercising power unjustly. This word carries a very negative connotation.

• The oppressor's actions led to widespread suffering and hardship in the community.
• Rebels rose up against the oppressor, seeking freedom and justice.

Used to describe a cruel and oppressive ruler, typically in a political or historical context.

• The people lived in fear under the rule of the tyrant
• History books often tell of ancient tyrants who ruled with an iron fist

Used to describe a person who habitually intimidates or mistreats others, especially those weaker or perceived as an easy target. This is often in a school or workplace context, and it has a strongly negative connotation.

• The school had a zero-tolerance policy towards bullies
• He was known as the office bully because of how he treated his colleagues

Used to describe a strict disciplinarian, particularly in a professional or military context, often with a focus on rule-following and order.

• The new sergeant was a martinet who insisted on discipline at all times
• In the office, he was considered a martinet because of his strict adherence to the rules

Used to describe a person or a regime that demands strict obedience and often limits personal freedoms, typically in a political or social context.

• The country was run by an authoritarian government that did not tolerate dissent
• His authoritarian parenting style left little room for the children to express themselves

Used to describe a person who asserts their will over others in an arrogant or forceful way, often within personal relationships or small group settings.

• Her domineering attitude made it hard for her to keep friends
• He was a domineering manager who never listened to his team