1. to treat people in a cruel or unfair way, especially by not giving them the same freedom, rights, etc. as other people
Usage: third person singular present tense
2. to make someone feel distressed or anxious
Usage: third person singular present tense

Examples

• The dictator oppresses his people through harsh laws.
• The government oppresses minority groups by denying them basic rights.
• Heavy debt oppresses many families today.
• The humid weather oppresses everyone in the city.
• Fear of failure oppresses her thoughts constantly.
• The authoritarian regime oppresses free speech.
• Poverty oppresses entire communities in the region.