Synonyms for

Tyrant

Verb / ˈtaɪrʌnt / Another word for tyrant — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A cruel and oppressive ruler.

Synonyms & similar words

autocrat despot dictator despot autocrat authoritarian oppressor bully ruler tyrannizer caesar czar emperor king monarch pharaoh potentate sovereign leader boss domineer

Synonyms by register

Formal

dictator autocrat despot oppressor

Informal

bully boss slave driver big shot

Literary

leviathan beast ogre

Antonyms

democrat leader benevolent ruler statesman liberator hero

Common collocations

  • absolute tyrant
  • cruel tyrant
  • power-hungry tyrant
  • reign of a tyrant
  • overthrow a tyrant
  • tyrant king
  • tyrant ruler

Word family

noun tyranny
adjective tyrannical

Usage note

A tyrant is a ruler who is cruel and oppressive. The term carries a strong negative connotation, implying abuse of power.

Example sentences

  1. The tyrant did not care about the people's needs.
  2. The people revolted against the tyrant's rule.
  3. The tyrant was known for his cruelty.
  4. The tyrant's reign came to an end when he was overthrown.
  5. The tyrant's army was defeated by the rebels.

Quotes

  • The tyrant is a child of pride who drinks from his sickening cup recklessness and vanity, until, from his high perch, madness casts him down to ruin. - Sophocles
  • The tyrant dies and his rule is over, the martyr dies and his rule begins. - Soren Kierkegaard
  • The tyrant falls and his rule ends, the martyr dies and his rule begins. - Soren Kierkegaard

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