Tyranny /(tĭr"an*ny̆)/

Tyr·an·ny

Tyranny

n.
  1. 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.
    “Sir,” would he [Seneca] say, “an emperor mote need Be virtuous and hate tyranny.”
  2. Cruel government or discipline; as, the tyranny of a schoolmaster.
  3. Severity; rigor; inclemency.
    The tyranny of the open night's too rough For nature to endure.