To oppress
Example: The regime continued to oppress the minority groups harshly.
Definition
"To oppress" means to exercise authority or power in a burdensome, cruel, or unjust manner, often causing prolonged hardship or suffering to individuals or groups. It typically involves systematic mistreatment or domination, as seen when a regime oppresses minority groups harshly.
Etymology
The verb "to oppress" comes from the Latin word 'opprimere,' meaning 'to press against or to overwhelm.' This root combines 'ob-' (against) and 'premere' (to press). Did you know? The word has carried its heavy sense of burden and domination since ancient times, reflecting the weight of injustice it describes.
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"To oppress" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - History - (B2) - set 1", containing 210 commonly used words.
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