tyrant

noun

ty·​rant ˈtī-rənt 

1

a

: an absolute ruler unrestrained by law or constitution

b

: a usurper of sovereignty

2

a

: a ruler who exercises absolute power oppressively or brutally

b

: one resembling an oppressive ruler in the harsh use of authority or power

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What makes someone a tyrant?

A glance at the comments posted in response to our definition of tyrant illustrate two things: the word has a fairly wide spectrum of meaning, and many political rulers of late (regardless of party and action) are thought by some to merit this description. 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"). The definitions we give for words match, as best as possible, the manner in which these words are used. We cannot offer judgment on whether or not any specific individual is or is not a tyrant.

Synonyms

• caesar
• despot
• dictator
• führer
• fuehrer
• oppressor
• pharaoh
• strongman
• tyrannizer

Examples of tyrant in a Sentence

Our boss is a real tyrant.

the people universally feared the tyrant, who was notorious for his frequent use of torture

Recent Examples on the Web

The assailants are domestic extremists whose aim is to further an agenda of tyrants and oligarchs. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 21 Mar. 2025

It was used, with the blood of brave Ukrainians, to defend their country from a tyrant’s aggression. —New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 4 Mar. 2025

In each instance, Hartman and Hooks play the Trumps as apathetic tyrants of capitalistic materialism, using both as stand-ins to ridicule the mindless excess of the period. —Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 15 Feb. 2025

Figures from Greek history, from the Athenian tyrant Pisistratus to Alexander the Great, could be famously power-hungry and vindictive. —Rachel Hadas, The Conversation, 5 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English tyraunt, from Anglo-French tyran, tyrant, from Latin tyrannus, from Greek tyrannos

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing tyrant

• tyrant flycatcher

Kids Definition

tyrant

noun

ty·​rant ˈtī-rənt 

1

: a ruler who has no legal limits on his or her power by law or constitution

2

a

: a ruler who exercises total power harshly or cruelly

b

: a person who uses authority or power harshly