tyrannyn.[OE. tirannye, OF. tirannie, F. tyrannie; cf. It. tirannia; Gr. tyranni`a, tyranni`s, 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 [Seneca] 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.)