oppressor

American  

[uh-pres-er] / əˈprɛs ər /

noun

1. a person or group that exercises authority or power over another in a harsh and burdensome way.

   Meanwhile the oppressors, blind to the brutal and unjust practices sustaining their dominance, simply increase the level of force against any who resist.

---

Other Word Forms

• preoppressor noun
• self-oppressor noun

Etymology

Origin of oppressor

First recorded in 1375–1425; oppress ( def. ) + -or ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

"All this work aims to bring the stories of victims to the world, countering secrecy -- the oppressor’s strongest ally -- and challenging injustice and impunity," Turk said.

From Barron's

“I focused on the voices of the people, the voices of my friends and comrades, I believe that’s what kept me alive, hearing them continue the fight despite how aggressive our oppressors were,” K said.

From Los Angeles Times

What actual human being, assured of his right to live, would set about begging his oppressors to accept the sacrifice of his identity?

From The Wall Street Journal

In both his realms, James worked to solidify the Reformation while facing attacks from the Puritans as an oppressor and from Rome as a heretic.

From The Wall Street Journal

In a pan-Indian context, English is an equalizer, not an oppressor.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• autocrat
• despot