Arbitrary or despotic exercise of power; the exercise of power over subjects and others with a rigor not authorized by law or justice, or not requisite for the purposes of government. Hence tyranny is often synonymous with cruelty and oppression./\V/ .

Cruel government or discipline; as the tyranny of a master.

Unresisted and cruel power.

Absolute monarchy cruelly administered.

Severity; rigor; inclemency. The tyranny o’ th’ open night.