iron fist

American  

[ahy-ern fist] / ˈaɪ ərn ˈfɪst /

noun

1. authority or power wielded in a cruel, dictatorial, or repressive way.

   The lecture described the torments that befell many artists under the iron fist of Stalin.

   This tyrant ruled the country with an iron fist until he was finally deposed and executed.

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Other Word Forms

• iron-fisted adjective
• ironfisted adjective

Example Sentences

“Iran brought down the iron fist with speed and ferocity we haven’t seen before,” said Ali Vaez, Iran project director at the International Crisis Group.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 17, 2026

But, despite the bloodbath of recent weeks, this is no time to lose confidence, he might think; he must plough on with an iron fist.

From BBC • Jan. 16, 2026

Ruled with an iron fist by President Paul Biya for 43 years, Cameroon is central Africa's most diversified economy.

From Barron's • Oct. 9, 2025

It is unlikely that Venkatesham will rule Spurs with an iron fist.

From BBC • Sep. 6, 2025

He’s been running it with an iron fist ever since.

From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman