tyrant Definition
- 1a cruel and oppressive ruler
- 2a person who behaves in an autocratic way
Using tyrant: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "tyrant" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The country was ruled by a tyrant for decades.
Example
He was accused of being a tyrant by his employees.
Example
She felt like a tyrant for making her children do their homework.
Example
The boss was a real tyrant, always yelling at his subordinates.
tyrant Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using tyrant
Example
I had to meet the tyrant in person to negotiate the terms of the contract.
to free oneself from the control or influence of a tyrant or oppressive ruler
Example
The people finally threw off the tyrant's yoke and established a democratic government.
a situation in which a majority group exercises its power to make decisions or impose its beliefs on a minority group
Example
The philosopher warned against the tyranny of the majority, arguing that individual rights should be protected even in a democracy.
Phrases with tyrant
a person who has a small amount of power over others and enjoys using it in a way that is not fair or reasonable
Example
The landlord was a petty tyrant, always finding ways to make the tenants' lives difficult.
a bird of the family Tyrannidae, found mainly in Central and South America
Example
The tyrant flycatcher is known for its distinctive call and hunting behavior.
Example
The tyrant lizard was one of the largest carnivorous dinosaurs that ever lived.
Origins of tyrant
from Old French 'tyran', from Latin 'tyrannus', from Greek 'turannos'
Summary: tyrant in Brief
The term 'tyrant' [ˈtaɪrənt] refers to a cruel and oppressive ruler or a person who behaves in an autocratic way. It can be used to describe historical figures or everyday situations, such as a boss who yells at subordinates. 'Tyrant' extends into phrases like 'meet the tyrant,' and idioms like 'the tyranny of the majority,' denoting the dangers of unchecked power.
