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oppressor

noun

/əˈprɛs ər/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of oppressor

An individual, group, or entity that exercises power, control, and dominance over others in an unjust and cruel manner.
"The king was a cruel oppressor who taxed his subjects heavily."

Detailed meaning of oppressor

An oppressor typically holds a position of authority or privilege, allowing them to enforce oppressive systems, norms, or policies upon those who are subjected to their authority. They use their power to subjugate and exploit others, often suppressing their rights, freedoms, and opportunities. The oppressor's actions are characterized by the imposition of unequal power dynamics, the infliction of harm or suffering, and the reinforcement of oppressive structures. Oppressors can be found in various contexts, such as oppressive regimes, authoritarian governments, or even within interpersonal relationships. The term "oppressor" conveys a sense of responsibility for perpetuating and maintaining systems of oppression, highlighting the need for awareness, resistance, and efforts to challenge their actions in order to achieve social justice and equality.

Example sentences containing oppressor

1. The ruthless oppressor's regime subjected its citizens to untold suffering.
2. Generations have endured the oppressive yoke of this tyrannical oppressor.
3. The oppressor's relentless pursuit of power left a trail of devastation.
4. The world watched as the oppressed rallied to defy their heartless oppressor.
5. The oppressor's rule was marked by corruption, cruelty, and repression.
6. Oppressors often use propaganda to justify their unjust actions.

History and etymology of oppressor

The noun 'oppressor' finds its etymological origins in the Latin word 'oppressor,' which is derived from the verb 'opprimere.' 'Opprimere' is a combination of 'ob' (meaning 'against') and 'premere' (meaning 'to press' or 'to squeeze'). This etymology precisely encapsulates the concept of an 'oppressor' as an individual, group, or entity that exercises power, control, and dominance over others in an unjust and cruel manner, metaphorically 'pressing down' upon them. 'Oppressor' is a term that has been used historically to identify those who subject others to oppressive conditions, often through force or coercion. Its Latin roots emphasize the idea of exerting pressure and the heavy-handed nature of such domination, shedding light on the origins of its meaning.

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Further usage examples of oppressor

1. The oppressed sought refuge from the iron fist of their heartless oppressor.
2. In the face of adversity, the spirit of resistance against the oppressor remained unbroken.
3. The oppressor's hold on the nation began to weaken as resistance movements grew.
4. The world's collective conscience demanded justice for the victims of the oppressor.
5. The oppressor's downfall was hastened by internal dissent and external pressure.
6. The oppressed yearned for liberation from the oppressive grip of their tormentor.
7. The oppressor's regime crumbled under the weight of its own corruption.
8. Oppressors often employ surveillance to maintain control over their subjects.
9. The oppressor's propaganda machine worked tirelessly to manipulate public opinion.
10. The oppressed rallied together, determined to overthrow their oppressor.
11. The world witnessed the gradual erosion of the oppressor's power and influence.
12. Oppressors use fear as a tool to keep their subjects in check.
13. The oppressor's disregard for human rights drew international condemnation.
14. Oppressors often resort to violence to quell any signs of dissent.
15. Many revolutions in history have been fought to overthrow the oppressor and gain freedom.
16. The citizens united to stand against the oppressor's unjust laws.
17. The oppressor’s reign was marked by fear and misery among the people.
18. She wrote a poem that beautifully depicted the struggle between the oppressed and the oppressor.
19. The oppressor used propaganda to maintain control over the population.
20. They decided to rebel after years of living under the iron fist of an oppressor.
21. It's important to educate ourselves about the tactics used by oppressors to control the masses.
22. The oppressed often have nothing to lose but the chains put on them by their oppressor.
23. In the novel, the protagonist rises from being a slave to leading a revolt against his oppressor.
24. Historical monuments often serve as reminders of the acts of oppressors and the resilience of the oppressed.
25. The oppressor silenced anyone who dared to speak against him.
26. Social media played a pivotal role in mobilizing people against the modern-day oppressor.
27. The heroine disguised herself to spy on the oppressor and learn his secrets.
28. The people's will to fight for justice eventually led to the downfall of the oppressor.