draconian

adjective

dra·​co·​ni·​an drā-ˈkō-nē-ən 

drə-

variants often Draconian

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 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

However, invoking these deaths as justification for more draconian state intervention is misguided and dangerous. —Chicago Tribune, 26 Apr. 2026

The draconian rule of law under Pinochet also thwarted the young director’s cinematic ambitions. —Christopher Vourlias, Variety, 22 Apr. 2026

The Tesla and SpaceX mogul has devoted most of his time and political capital to calling for draconian cuts to government spending. —Dave Goldiner, New York Daily News, 17 Apr. 2026

Magyar’s focus on the economy means reform of Hungary’s draconian anti-LGBTQ+ laws, which currently includes the banning of Pride marches and fines for promoting homosexuality in schools, may not be a priority. —Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 16 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1752, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for draconian

• amazonian
• babylonian
• hamiltonian
• parkinsonian
• baconian
• devonian
• estonian
• hasmonean
• newtonian
• pannonian
• senonian

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