The meaning of TYRANT is an absolute ruler unrestrained by law or constitution. How to use tyrant in a sentence. What makes someone a tyrant?

TYRANT definition: a sovereign or other ruler who uses power oppressively or unjustly. See examples of tyrant used in a sentence.

A tyrant (from Ancient Greek τύραννος (túrannos) 'absolute ruler'), in the modern English usage of the word, is an absolute ruler who is unrestrained by law, or one who has usurped a legitimate ruler's …

TYRANT meaning: 1. a ruler who has unlimited power over other people, and uses it unfairly and cruelly: 2. a ruler…. Learn more.

Definition of tyrant noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

You can use tyrant to refer to someone who treats the people they have authority over in a cruel and unfair way. …countries where the leader was a tyrant.

Dec 14, 2025 · tyrant (plural tyrants) (historical, Ancient Greece) A usurper; one who gains power and rules extralegally, distinguished from kings elevated by election or succession. quotations

An extremely oppressive, unjust, or cruel ruler. 2. An absolute ruler who governs without restrictions, especially one who seized power illegally. 3. An oppressive, harsh, arbitrary person: My boss is a tyrant.

ty•rant (tī′ rənt), n. a sovereign or other ruler who uses power oppressively or unjustly. any person in a position of authority who exercises power oppressively or despotically. a tyrannical or compulsory …

In antiquity the word tyrant signified the holder of absolute political power. In modern times the word is usually pejorative and connotes the illegitimate possession or use of such power.