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Draconian comes from Drakōn, the name (later Latinized as Draco) of a 7th-century B.C. Athenian legislator who created a written code of law. Drakōn’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, is used especially for 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
Policymakers defend draconian cuts to Medicaid by maligning the work ethic or honesty of low-income women, despite substantial evidence to the contrary.
—
Jocelyn Frye, The Orlando Sentinel, 19 June 2026
The regulations include draconian restrictions on women and girls, including bans on education beyond primary school and what women can wear.
—ABC News, 10 June 2026
From the first page, Satrapi questions and lampoons the antediluvian and Draconian policies of the Islamic Republic, particularly with respect to women.
—Joobin Bekhrad, Time, 10 June 2026
But the work sparked controversy when some lawmakers — along with alcohol industry trade groups — claimed the scientists were biased against alcohol and would reach a conclusion with draconian implications.
—Theresa Gaffney, STAT, 9 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for draconian
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Jocelyn Frye, The Orlando Sentinel, 19 June 2026
The regulations include draconian restrictions on women and girls, including bans on education beyond primary school and what women can wear.
—ABC News, 10 June 2026
From the first page, Satrapi questions and lampoons the antediluvian and Draconian policies of the Islamic Republic, particularly with respect to women.
—Joobin Bekhrad, Time, 10 June 2026
But the work sparked controversy when some lawmakers — along with alcohol industry trade groups — claimed the scientists were biased against alcohol and would reach a conclusion with draconian implications.
—Theresa Gaffney, STAT, 9 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for draconian
Cite this Entry
“Draconian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/draconian. Accessed 24 Jun. 2026.
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