Main Entry: dra·co·ni·an

Pronunciation: \drā-ˈkō-nē-ən, drə-\

Function: adjective

Usage: often capitalized

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

Date: 1775

1 : 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>