Tyrannize
/ˈtɪr.ə.naɪz/noun
To rule or behave in a cruel, oppressive, or domineering way.
Did you know?The word ultimately comes from Greek tyrannos, a ruler whose title became so stained by abuse of power that it still sounds sinister in modern English.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
tyrannos
“a ruler or sovereign, later especially one who held power unjustly”
Late Greek
Greek
tyrannízein
“to act like a tyrant; to exercise oppressive control”
Late Latin
Latin
tyrannizare
“to behave as a tyrant”
Middle French
French
tyranniser
“to tyrannize, oppress”
Late 16th Century
English
tyrannize
“to rule or act in a tyrannical manner”