01 n. The government or authority of a tyrant; a country governed by an absolute ruler; hence, arbitrary or despotic exercise of power; exercise …
-
1.
The government or authority of a tyrant; a country governed by an absolute ruler; hence, arbitrary or despotic exercise of power; exercise of power over subjects and others with a rigor not authorized by law or justice, or not requisite for the purposes of government.““Sir,” would he [Seneca] say, “an emperor mote need Be virtuous and hate tyranny.”” — Chaucer.
-
2.
Cruel government or discipline; as, the tyranny of a schoolmaster.
-
3.
Severity; rigor; inclemency.“The tyranny of the open night's too rough For nature to endure.” — Shak.