tyranny

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tyr|an|ny /t'ɪrəni/ (tyrannies)
1 [N-VAR]
A tyranny is a cruel, harsh, and unfair government in which a person or small group of people have power over everyone else.
Self-expression and individuality are the greatest weapons against tyranny.
2 [N-UNCOUNT]
If you describe someone's behaviour and treatment of others that they have authority over as tyranny, you mean that they are severe with them or unfair to them.
I'm the sole victim of Mother's tyranny.
3 [N-COUNT] oft N of n
You can describe something that you have to use or have as a tyranny if you think it is undesirable or unpleasant.
The telephone is one of the great tyrannies of modern life.

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