Definition of tyranny

• n. - The government or authority of a tyrant; a country governed by an absolute ruler; hence, arbitrary or despotic exercise of power; exercise of power over subjects and others with a rigor not authorized by law or justice, or not requisite for the purposes of government.
• n. - Cruel government or discipline; as, the tyranny of a schoolmaster.
• n. - Severity; rigor; inclemency.