Tyranny
/ˈtɪrəni/
Definitions
- (n.) Oppressive and absolute government or rule that infringes on personal freedoms and legal rights.
The constitution was designed to prevent tyranny by limiting the powers of government.
- (n.) The unlawful or arbitrary exercise of power by a government or individual.
Citizens protested against the tyranny of the dictator who ignored the rule of law.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
In legal contexts, tyranny typically denotes abuse of power violating fundamental rights; drafting against it often involves embedding checks and balances.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.