The word is often now found used as a generalized term of reproach ("he was a real tyrant in the kitchen"), and also with more specific denotation ("the tyrant suspended the country’s judicial code").

A tyrant (from Ancient Greek τύραννος (túrannos) 'absolute ruler'), in the modern English usage of the word, is an absolute ruler who is unrestrained by law, or one who has usurped a legitimate ruler's …

TYRANT definition: a sovereign or other ruler who uses power oppressively or unjustly. See examples of tyrant used in a sentence.

An extremely oppressive, unjust, or cruel ruler. 2. An absolute ruler who governs without restrictions, especially one who seized power illegally. 3. An oppressive, harsh, arbitrary person: My boss is a tyrant.

TYRANT definition: 1. a ruler who has unlimited power over other people, and uses it unfairly and cruelly: 2. a ruler…. Learn more.

Definition of tyrant noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

You can use tyrant to refer to someone who treats the people they have authority over in a cruel and unfair way. …countries where the leader was a tyrant.

Jan 20, 2026 · tyrant (plural tyrants) (historical, Ancient Greece) A usurper; one who gains power and rules extralegally, distinguished from kings elevated by election or succession.

Tyrant, a cruel and oppressive ruler or, in ancient Greece, a ruler who seized power unconstitutionally or inherited such power.

Feb 25, 2026 · A "tyrant" is a ruler or person who exercises power in a cruel, oppressive, and often arbitrary manner. Understanding this term helps us recognize and analyze abuses of power …