Tyr″an‐ny (?), n. [OE. tirannye, OF. tirannie, F. tyrannie; cf. It. tirannia; Gr. �, �, L. tyrannis. See Tyrant.] 1. The government or authority of a tyrant; a country governed by an absolute ruler; hence, arbitrary or despotic exercise of power; exercise of power over subjects and others with a rigor not authorized by law or justice, or not requisite for the purposes of government.
“Sir,” would he say, “an emperor mote need
Be virtuous and hate tyranny.” Chaucer.
2. Cruel government or discipline; as, the tyranny of a schoolmaster.
3. Severity; rigor; inclemency.
The tyranny of the open night's too rough
For nature to endure. Shak.