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| tyr·an·ny [ tírrənee ] (plural tyr·an·nies) |
noun |
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| Definition: |
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1. cruel use of power: cruelty and injustice in the exercise of power or authority over others
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2. oppressive government: oppressive government by one or more people who exercise absolute power cruelly and unjustly
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3. state ruled by tyrant: a country or state under the power of an oppressive ruler
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4. cruel act: a cruel or oppressive act, especially one committed by a person wielding great power
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| [14th century. Via French< late Latin tyrannia< Latin tyrannus "tyrant"] |
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  tyr·an·nous adjective |
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