1. rulers who use their power in a cruel or oppressive way
Usage: plural of tyrant
2. people who demand exact obedience and use their authority harshly
Usage: informal; can refer to non-political contexts

Examples

• The people rose up against the tyrants who had ruled them for decades.
• History books are filled with stories of cruel tyrants and their downfall.
• The citizens celebrated when the tyrants were finally overthrown.
• Some teachers act like tyrants, demanding perfect silence at all times.
• The workers complained that their bosses were tyrants who never listened.
• Ancient tyrants often built monuments to themselves using forced labor.