tyrannize

[ tir-uh-nahyz ]

verb (used without object)

, tyr·an·nized, tyr·an·niz·ing.

1. to exercise absolute power or control, especially cruelly or oppressively (often followed by over ).
2. to govern despotically, cruelly, or oppressively.
3. to govern or reign as a tyrant.

verb (used with object)

, tyr·an·nized, tyr·an·niz·ing.

1. to rule or govern tyrannically; treat oppressively.

tyrannize

/ ˈtɪrəˌnaɪz /

verb

1. whenintr, often foll by over to rule or exercise power (over) in a cruel or oppressive manner

Derived Forms

• ˈtyranˌnizer, noun

Other Words From

• tyran·nizer noun
• tyran·nizing·ly adverb
• outtyran·nize verb (used with object) outtyrannized outtyrannizing
• un·tyran·nized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of tyrannize¹

1485–95; < French tyranniser < Late Latin tyrannizāre, equivalent to tyrann ( us ) tyrant + -izāre -ize

Example Sentences

Perhaps most important, the idea of putting tyrants on trial has caught on in the countries they tyrannize.

From The Daily Beast

An old gentleman says, he is the last man in the world to tyrannize over a daughter's affections.

From Project Gutenberg

The opposition charged the government with a desire to subvert the constitution of Jamaica, and to tyrannize over the colonists.

From Project Gutenberg

Now, dear, you remember that I prophesied long ago that Mr. Meeks would tyrannize over you hand and foot, if you let him.

From Project Gutenberg

After a period of that fearful ordeal when children tyrannize for romances that will not come, her mind grew mutinous and balked.

From Project Gutenberg

Have not you, you priests, in the West exalted yourselves to tyrannize over the consciences of your fellow-men?

From Project Gutenberg