draconian

adjective

dra·​co·​ni·​an drā-ˈkō-nē-ən 

drə-

often capitalized

1

law : of, relating to, or characteristic of Draco or the severe code of laws held to have been framed by him

2

: cruel

also : severe

draconian littering fines

Did you know?

Draconian comes from Draco, the name of a 7th-century B.C. Athenian legislator who created a written code of law. Draco's code was intended to clarify existing laws, but its severity is what made it really memorable. According to the code, even minor offenses were punishable by death, and failure to pay one's debts could result in slavery. Draconian, as a result, became associated with especially authoritative actions that are viewed as cruel or harsh.

Examples of draconian in a Sentence

The editorial criticizes the draconian measures being taken to control the spread of the disease.

Recent Examples on the Web

The free edition of TunnelBear VPN imposes a draconian limit of 500MB per month. —PCMAG, 6 May 2024

These draconian laws discriminating against Christian parents are discouraging many from participating in the system. —Jim Daly, The Denver Post, 1 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin Dracon-, Draco, from Greek Drakōn Draco (Athenian lawgiver)

First Known Use

1775, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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