oppression

[uh-presh-uhn]

noun

1. the exercise of authority or power in a burdensome, cruel, or unjust manner.

   Synonyms: persecution, despotism, tyranny
   Antonyms: justice, kindness

2. an act or instance of oppressing or subjecting to cruel or unjust impositions or restraints.

3. the state of being oppressed.

   Synonyms: suffering, hardship

4. the feeling of being heavily burdened, mentally or physically, by troubles, adverse conditions, anxiety, etc.

   Synonyms: suffering, hardship

oppression

/ əˈprɛʃən /

noun

1. the act of subjugating by cruelty, force, etc or the state of being subjugated in this way

2. the condition of being afflicted or tormented

3. the condition of having something lying heavily on one's mind, imagination, etc

Other Word Forms

• nonoppression noun
• preoppression noun
• self-oppression noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of oppression¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English oppressioun, from Middle French, from Latin oppressiōn-, stem of oppressiō “a pressing down,” equivalent to oppress(us) “pressed down” + -iō noun suffix; oppress, -ion

Example Sentences

Every day we see various forms of persecution, exploitation and oppression that violate our core values.

From Salon

Ms Niazi, who founded the Afghan Times in 2021, said journalism acts as a voice for people who "cannot speak" due to oppression.

From BBC

Ray has the critical thinking down, but his journey is an emotional one, learning to see the world through Pete’s eyes but never putting his natural leadership abilities to use in organizing against their oppression.

From Los Angeles Times

She is a fierce critic of Israel's actions and is banned from Israel because of comments about "Israeli oppression" made after 7 October.

From BBC

He claims there is "rampant pressure and oppression" of opposition figures in politics, civil society, academia and the media.

From BBC

Related Words

• abuse 
• brutality 
• coercion 
• cruelty 
• despotism 
• dictatorship 
• domination 
• injustice 
• maltreatment 
• persecution 
• suffering 
• tyranny