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tyrannize

verb tyr·an·nize \ ˈtir-ə-ˌnīz \

Definition of tyrannize

tyrannized; tyrannizing
intransitive verb
: to exercise arbitrary oppressive power or severity
  • some ways the living tyrannize over the dying
  • —Thomas Powers
transitive verb
: to treat tyrannically : oppress
  • a regime that tyrannizes its citizens
—

tyrannizer

noun

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Examples of tyrannize in a Sentence

  1. a government that tyrannizes its own people

First Known Use of tyrannize

15th century

in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

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TYRANNIZE Defined for English Language Learners

tyrannize

verb

Definition of tyrannize for English Language Learners

  • : to use power to treat (people) in a cruel and unfair way

Learn More about tyrannize

  1. See words that rhyme with tyrannize Spanish Central: Translation of tyrannize Nglish: Translation of tyrannize for Spanish speakers

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