oppressor

[uh-pres-er]

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of oppressor¹

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

Example Sentences

He is the avatar of the oppressor who wants to believe he’s the victim.

From Salon

It’s an artistic choice that also blurs boundaries between oppressed and oppressors, revealing the complicity of the American Dream.

From Los Angeles Times

The set proves that having standards and integrity, even in the face of your oppressors and the ugliness they broadcast, will create something beautiful enough to combat even the most despicable reality.

From Salon

Politically it is no longer a story of oppressor versus oppressed.

From BBC

"I have no fear, you are behind me and by my side. I have no fear because the nation is united. The nation is united against the oppressor," the letter said according to Reuters.

From BBC

Related Words

• autocrat 
• despot