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Definition of tyrannize

tyrannize

/ˈtɪr.ə.naɪz/
(UK: tyrannise)
tyr · an · nize
Adverb:tyrannically
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Adjective:tyrannical
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Past Simple:tyrannized
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Past Participle:tyrannized
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Present Participle:tyrannizing
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tyrannize Lexical Profile

tyrannize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To rule or treat a person or group of people with cruel, unjust, and oppressive authority.

Example

"The autocratic monarch continued to tyrannize the peasantry through heavy taxation and strict censorship."

2

To exercise absolute, arbitrary, or despotic power (often followed by 'over').

Example

"A controlling manager should never be allowed to tyrannize over junior staff members."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

typography
tyrannical
tyrannically
tyrannize
tyrannosaurus
tyrannously
tyranny

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French 'tyranniser', ultimately derived from Ancient Greek 'tyrannein' (to be a tyrant), from 'tyrannos' (absolute ruler).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Tyrannize. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/tyrannize
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