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oppressed

adjective

/əˈprɛst/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of oppressed

Being subjected to unjust and cruel treatment, control, or domination by an individual, group, or system.
"She lived in an oppressed society where freedom of expression was heavily restricted."

Detailed meaning of oppressed

It describes the experience of being burdened, suppressed, or denied basic rights and freedoms. When someone is oppressed, they often face systemic barriers, discrimination, and a lack of power or agency in their personal or social circumstances. This adjective conveys a sense of hardship, inequality, and the pervasive sense of being subjugated or marginalized. Oppressed individuals may endure various forms of mistreatment, such as social, economic, or political oppression. The term encapsulates the notion of being weighed down, silenced, or restricted by an oppressive force, whether it be through laws, societal norms, or oppressive regimes. Overall, the word "oppressed" reflects a profound sense of injustice and the need for liberation from oppressive conditions.

Example sentences containing oppressed

1. The oppressed workers fought for fair wages and better working conditions.
2. The film shed light on the struggles of oppressed communities around the world.
3. The oppressed minority finally gained their rights after years of activism.
4. He grew up in an oppressed household, where his opinions were constantly silenced.
5. The novel portrayed the journey of an oppressed woman finding her voice and liberation.
6. The organization aimed to provide support and resources for oppressed individuals.

History and etymology of oppressed

The adjective 'oppressed' traces its etymology to the Latin word 'opprimere,' which consists of 'ob' (meaning 'against') and 'premere' (meaning 'to press' or 'to squeeze'). This etymological foundation vividly conveys the concept of being subjected to unjust and cruel treatment, control, or domination. 'Oppressed' denotes a state where individuals or groups are metaphorically 'pressed down' or held in a position of suffering, often as a result of the actions or policies of an individual, group, or system that exerts power over them. This term has been widely used to describe the plight of those who experience severe injustices, highlighting the enduring impact of its Latin origins in conveying the sense of weighty and unjust burdens imposed upon the oppressed.

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Further usage examples of oppressed

1. The government's oppressive policies sparked widespread protests from the oppressed masses.
2. The documentary exposed the harsh realities faced by oppressed communities in urban areas.
3. She felt a deep sense of empathy for the oppressed and dedicated her life to advocating for their rights.
4. The artist used her platform to raise awareness about the stories of oppressed people through her artwork.
5. The oppressor's grip on power seemed unrelenting, making life unbearable for the oppressed.
6. Despite the challenges, the oppressed community remained resilient and continued their fight for justice.
7. The international community condemned the human rights violations committed against the oppressed population.
8. Education played a crucial role in empowering the oppressed and breaking the cycle of oppression.
9. The oppressed people yearned for freedom and equality.
10. Generations fought against the oppressive regime.
11. They united to overthrow their oppressive rulers.
12. Her poetry spoke to the hearts of the oppressed.
13. The history of colonization is fraught with oppressed nations.
14. The weight of oppression was felt by the entire community.
15. The oppressed workers demanded better working conditions.
16. Civil rights activists fought for justice for the oppressed.
17. The oppressed minority organized peaceful protests.
18. Oppressed voices found strength through solidarity.
19. The art depicted the struggles of the oppressed.
20. The world rallied in support of the oppressed refugees.
21. The oppressive laws targeted the most vulnerable.
22. The oppressed people's resilience inspired others.
23. The film shed light on the lives of the oppressed.
24. Oppressed groups sought legal and social reform.
25. The oppressive regime silenced dissenting voices.
26. The oppressed sought refuge in neighboring countries.
27. The stories of the oppressed echoed through history.
28. Empathy is crucial in understanding the plight of the oppressed.