a form of government in which the ruler is an absolute dictator (not restricted by a constitution or laws or opposition etc.)
"After the monarchy was abolished, the people welcomed democracy to replace the oppressive tyranny that had ruled them for decades."
dominance through threat of punishment and violence
"The dictator's tyranny kept the entire city in fear, as anyone caught speaking out was immediately beaten or imprisoned without trial."
A government in which a single ruler (a tyrant) has absolute power; this system of government.
"The revolution began as the people rose up to overthrow the ancient tyranny that had kept them in chains for decades."